First, it’s important to distinguish between the weather actually affecting the body and the body reacting to weather conditions. For instance, people that suffer from asthma related to exercise may tend to have attacks more in colder weather. While at first, this may seem like a direct correlation between the body and the weather, it really isn’t. Because fast breathing in cold weather does not offer a chance for air to get warm before entering the lungs, swelling can occur, triggering asthma attacks and reduced breathing capacity. Additionally, thunderstorms can set pollen free into the air, leaving people with allergies to suffer more during the rainy weather.

However, some people actually do experience changes in their body due to the weather, and unfortunately, medical explanations are in short supply. Many people that are predisposed to suffering from migraines find that wet weather, including damp climates, exacerbate symptoms. In addition, people that suffer from joint pain and arthritis tend to feel the effects of their conditions much more during extreme temperature drops and in generally colder weather.

One explanation for the effects of weather on those suffering from migraines and joint pain is barometric pressure. As the pressure around us changes, even slightly, there is a change in the fluid levels in our body. Someone that is already predisposed to joint pain or migraines may have extra pressure placed on the affected area as a result of pressure changes in the atmosphere, thereby causing more pain. Certain parts of the body also contain baro-receptors that are very sensitive to slight changes in barometric pressure in the atmosphere.

Many people that suffer from these ailments are able to seek medical assistance from their primary care physician. There are a variety of drugs available for people suffering from migraines, allergies, joint pain and asthma, and many of these drugs can be used to combat weather related symptoms as well. Additionally, there are a number of natural therapies available to combat the pain associated with seasonal symptoms. In fact, many people turn to natural treatments for their seasonal ailments due lower costs and fewer side effects than traditional prescriptions. If you find yourself suffering more during changes in the weather, it is important to speak with your doctor to discuss treatment options, including natural solutions.

Do Away With Repetitive Movements
While this may be impossible for those of us who are slaves to typing, it’s important to avoid repetitive movements. Find ways to put the least amount of stress on your hands when doing every day things such as using the computer or talking on the phone.

Take Breaks
To allow good blood flow and relieve stress, take frequent breaks when you do things such as work at the computer. There are also some wrist exercises which can be beneficial before and after you hit the keyboard.

Re-situate the Desk
To best prevent carpal tunnel syndrome, you may need to re-arrange your office or work place. Research shows that it is important that you keep your computer level with your elbows, putting less pressure on your wrists. This may be the perfect excuse to go buy that new desk you were looking at.

Improve that Posture
When your mother complained about you slouching, her advice truly was worth listening to. Having poor posture can increase your chances of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. So, start paying attention to your mom and stand up straight.

Stay Healthy Overall
While it sounds strange, some well-known conditions such as diabetes and arthritis can make you a more likely candidate for carpal tunnel syndrome. Smoking also adds to your risk. To best prevent the condition, it is important to stay healthy by maintaining a good weight, exercising, eating right, and drinking plenty of water. To make sure your body is in the best condition and to control diabetes and arthritis, you can look into natural, low-risk health solutions.

Watch for the Warning Signs
If you start to experience tingling, numbness, or pain in your wrists than you may be experiencing the warning signs of carpal tunnel syndrome. You should see a doctor as soon as possible or take even more measures to prevent putting stress on your wrists.

When you work to change your lifestyle, your chances of developing carpal tunnel syndrome are significantly reduced. Don’t allow yourself to become a slave to this condition; start improving the way you live right now before the problem has a chance to develop.

Joint Pain

Other treatments for joint pain include the use of corticosteroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug. The problem with these prescription drugs are the side effects they carry. We all want to feel better but not at the expense of incurring more symptoms. Finding a treatment that does not have any side effects will prevent the vicious cycle from occurring in the first place.

Corticosteroids are used to relieve inflammation in joints and muscles. However, over time, side effects to do occur such as glaucoma, diabetes, osteoporosis fluid retention and swelling in the lower legs, increased blood pressure and weight gain.

The non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are also meant to provide relief from swelling. However, side effects include gastro esophageal reflux disease, especially for people who have lupus. Persons with lupus are prone to developing this disease when taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory prescriptions. Others experience a decreased appetite, skin rashes, dizziness, fatigue, headaches and nausea.

Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic medications are also used to treat such conditions. These are often used in combination with other medications. Side effects include upset stomach and a sore mouth. Another serious side effect is interference with bone marrow’s production of blood cells. If this occurs, low blood cell counts can cause fever, swollen lymph nodes and infections. In addition there may be liver or lung damage even with low doses. There are more side effects such as temporary hair loss, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, rashes or weight loss. Every disease-modifying anti-rheumatic prescription type will present a few of these risks and the effects will vary from person to person.

In the light of the above, finding natural supplements devoid of side effects for treating joint pain is highly recommended.