The ‘aches and pains forecast’ that validated my EDS symptoms

A recent social media post from a weather forecaster noted that the temperature, barometric pressure, and humidity would all fluctuate significantly in the coming days, and that the “aches and pains forecast” was high.

These wild weather swings can affect people in a variety of ways, aggravating conditions such as arthritis, migraine, asthma, and sinus issues, he said.

Of course, the weather is a major contributor to all sorts of allergies. The spring brings pollen that can last through summer and fall, when mold from rotting leaves also contributes.

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EDS and changes in the weather

I have noticed that my symptoms of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) are also affected by changes in the weather. I struggle with tight muscles from the extra farm chores in cold weather, and heat can knock out all of my energy and make my chronic fatigue — one of the most challenging symptoms of EDS — worse.

Some readers of my column have also said they experience changes in their symptoms with the weather, and it must be pretty widespread for the weatherman to bring it up! Maybe he has a friend or family member who’s affected by a chronic disorder.

Many years ago, a very in-tune massage therapist told me that a seasonal allergy flare can also trigger an EDS pain flare. She explained that once my inflammatory system gets going, it can spread to other parts of my body, leading to pain. After she told me that, I remembered instances of that very thing happening. Knowing this, I’ve learned to try to keep my allergies in check rather than tough it out, to minimize the risk of them spiraling into other problems.

Of course, there are times when my EDS seems to flare up for no reason, and that’s simply part of managing it. But this meteorologist made me wonder whether some of my “mystery” flares could be related to changing barometric pressure, humidity, or other environmental factors. In any event, I was glad he mentioned it. Any time people can raise awareness about chronic disorders is a win, not just for the rare disease community, but for everyone who manages weather-related health issues.

I’m going to pay more attention to how changes in the weather might affect my EDS. I may not be able to do anything about it, but simply understanding that there’s a cause behind my pain flare can be a win, albeit a strange one.

Note: Ehlers-Danlos News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Ehlers-Danlos News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Ehlers-Danlos.