Parkinson's and the cold

As most of those who read my posts will know I have Parkinson’s Disease and since it is winter here, I am writing a bit about how the cold can affect people with Parkinson’s Disease

On thing I find is how hard it is for me to warm up once I become cold, I also feel the cold more. This is because Parkinson’s affects movement and can also affect the nervous system, which helps control body temperature.

I feel the cold weather makes my tremors more noticeable. I also find I suffer from shivering more. I have read that is common for some people to feel more tired because their body is working harder to stay warm and move comfortably.

Another common effect of cold weather is increased stiffness. When muscles are cold, they can tighten and feel less flexible. For a person with Parkinson’s, this can make rigidity, slowness, and everyday movements worse. Tasks such as walking, getting dressed, using buttons, or holding objects may take more effort than usual.

Mobility and balance can also be affected. In cold, wet, or icy weather, people with Parkinson’s may move more slowly and have a higher risk of falling. Stiff muscles, slower reactions, slippery paths, and bulky winter clothing can all make walking less steady.

To reduce these problems, it can help to dress in warm layers, keep hands and feet covered, warm up indoors before going outside, wear shoes with good grip, and allow extra time when walking in cold conditions.

The cold weather has prevented me from going for a walk the last couple of mornings, due to me finding it difficult to walk as my legs and feet feel heavy. I don’t feel safe as it is harder to pick me feet up and I am shuffling about.