Have you ever wondered how humidity levels affect pain? Recommended humidity levels for indoor environments stand at between 30% and 50%, and failing to take this seriously can have more negative effects on your health than you may have imagined. There is a vital link, for example, between humidity levels and pain, with one 2015 study on people with osteoarthritis of the hip/knee/hands showing that higher humidity levels are linked to increased pain and stiffness – especially during the colder months of the year. Another study on people with rheumatoid arthritis, meanwhile, also revealed that symptoms of the disease were lower on dry, sunny days. Of course, getting the humidity quotient right is not always a matter of reducing moisture in the air. Sometimes, environments that are too dry can increase pain in unexpected ways.
Pain Caused By Dry Air
It is no wonder that many homes in dry zones invest not only in portable humidifiers, but also in whole house humidifiers to increase moisture in the whole living environment. Doing so enables families to avoid painful conditions such as sore throats and dry skin that can break or develop sores when scratched or rubbed. By increasing moisture levels in the air, home dwellers can keep everything from nosebleeds to dermatitis at bay. Optimal levels of humidity can also lower stress levels, which is important, considering the fact that increased levels of stress are linked to aches and pains. For instance, one study on patients with sickle cell disease found that those who faced higher levels of daily stress showed increases in same-day pain levels.
High Humidity Levels And Muscle Pain
In addition to worsening joint pain, high humidity levels can also exacerbate pain in the muscles, tendons and ligaments. It can also thicken the blood, thus augmenting pressure in the blood vessels. Stiffness, sensitivity and pain can result from shifts in barometric pressure caused by high levels of humidity. This is because muscles expand and contract in response to these changes, resulting in pain. Other explanations for increased muscle pain in humid zones include lower levels of physical activity caused by bad weather, and changes in mood. Cold, humid climates can boost the likelihood of mental conditions such as depression and anxiety, which in turn can increase one’s perception of pain.
In order to enjoy optimal health and wellbeing at home, getting your humidity levels right is vital. You should aim for a level of between 30% and 50%, using a hygrometer to determine if there is a problem in your indoor environment. If your home atmosphere is dry, individual or whole house humidifiers can help place more moisture into the air, so you can avoid conditions such as sore throats, skin dryness, and nosebleeds. If, on the other hand, too much humidity is the problem, then solutions can include fixing leaks, using a dehumidifier, using an air conditioner, and investing in exhaust or ventilation fans. Once you do take the required steps to improve your indoor air quality, you will undoubtedly notice a corresponding improvement in your health and in your enjoyment of your home life.
by Chrissy Philips
