Cold Weather Self-Care for Chronic Conditions

Two senior people taking a daytime walk in the winter

At SouthCoast Health, our integrated team of primary care physicians and specialists work together to help patients manage chronic conditions in every season. While winters in our region are generally mild, cold snaps and sudden temperature swings can still take a toll on those managing ongoing health issues. Cooler weather can worsen symptoms or trigger flare-ups for conditions such as arthritis, asthma, heart disease, and allergies.

Here’s how SouthCoast Health’s multidisciplinary team recommends caring for yourself during the colder months.

Arthritis and Joint Pain: Keep Moving and Stay Warm

Cold, damp weather can make stiff joints feel even stiffer. When temperatures drop, the body’s response is to conserve heat by reducing blood flow to the extremities, which can increase discomfort in the hands, knees, and feet.

To minimize pain:

Stay active: Gentle movement keeps joints flexible. Try low-impact exercises like walking indoors, yoga, or swimming in a heated pool.
Warm up before activity: Stretch and use heat packs before exercise to loosen tight muscles.
Dress for warmth: Layer clothing and keep joints covered when outside.

If joint pain or swelling worsens, talk to your primary care physician. Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may connect you with the specialists in our physical therapy, surgery, or podiatry departments to help evaluate your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan to restore mobility and comfort.

Asthma and Allergies: Guard Your Airways

Cold, dry air can irritate the lungs and trigger asthma symptoms. Meanwhile, indoor allergens like dust mites, mold, and pet dander often worsen as windows stay closed and heaters run more frequently.

Try the following steps to breathe easier in the colder season:

Cover your nose and mouth outdoors: This helps warm and humidify cold air before it reaches your lungs.
Maintain indoor air quality: Use HEPA filters, dust and vacuum regularly, and monitor humidity levels.
Keep medications current: Refill inhalers and allergy prescriptions before you need them.

SouthCoast Health’s Allergy and Asthma department can help identify environmental triggers and fine-tune treatment plans for both adults and children.

Heart Health: Protect Your Cardiovascular System

Sudden drops in temperature can cause blood vessels to constrict, which raises blood pressure and puts extra strain on the heart. Even mild cold exposure can increase the risk of chest pain or shortness of breath for those with cardiovascular disease.

To keep your heart strong through winter:

Avoid overexertion: Brisk outdoor activity, yard work, or heavy lifting in cold air can spike heart rate and blood pressure
Stay warm: Dress in layers, wear gloves and hats, and limit time outdoors in chilly winds.
Monitor your blood pressure: Keep track of readings and follow your provider’s recommendations for diet, exercise, and medications.

If you notice chest discomfort or irregular heartbeats, seek medical attention right away. SouthCoast Health’s cardiology experts are here to help manage your heart health year-round.

Managing Other Chronic Conditions During Weather Changes

Even milder winter weather can affect people with other ongoing health issues:

Diabetes: Cooler weather may alter insulin sensitivity or activity levels. Monitor blood sugar regularly and adjust your routine with your provider’s guidance. Our Endocrinology team can help patients understand how the colder weather impacts diabetes care.
Kidney health: Staying hydrated remains important even when it’s not hot outside. Aim for plenty of fluids throughout the day, and contact our Nephrology team for personalized guidance.
Eye care: Dry indoor air can irritate the eyes, particularly for contact lens wearers. Use artificial tears or a humidifier to relieve dryness, and reach out to our Eye Care team if irritation persists.
Immune health: Viruses circulate more easily in cooler months. Regular handwashing, flu vaccination, and maintaining a balanced diet can reduce your risk of infection.

Your Partner in Year-Round Wellness

Ready to take charge of your health this winter? SouthCoast Health is here to help you feel your best, even when the weather isn’t at its warmest. Schedule an appointment online with one of our providers today.

Whether you are looking for a primary care doctor or a pediatrician, or another medical specialist, SouthCoast Health has you covered with its wide range of world-class healthcare services, available throughout the Coastal Empire and Lowcountry. SouthCoast Health has 120 physicians and medical professionals in 18 locations in Savannah, Richmond Hill, Pooler, Rincon, Baxley, Hilton Head, Hinesville, and Statesboro. SouthCoast Health offers comprehensive medical services including: Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Allergy and Asthma, Cardiology, Endocrinology, Eye Care, Imaging, Infectious Diseases, Nephrology, Neurology, Physical Therapy, Podiatry, Surgery, Clinical Trial Research Studies, Diabetic Self-Management Training Sessions, Dietetic Counseling, Laboratory Services, Massage Therapy, Optical Shop, Pharmacy, and Urgent Care.