When the first leaves fall you know it's time for Halloween preparations, apple pie and hot chocolates. But it's also the time of cold weather, which can make living with chronic pain a lot harder. Managing the temperature changes and the heavy rains which come with the fall season brings new challenges to those who suffer from chronic pain, as it triggers stiffness and a general discomfort. But there is also good news: coping with your chronic illness during autumn is possible, if you embrace new habits.

Many people notice their body is sore during the cold season and blame it on the cold. For those who already suffer from generalized pain, things are more complicated. Changes in the barometric pressure cause the tissues to expand and lead to stiffness in your joints. At the same time, pressure changes triggers more migraines and headaches, as the body is trying to adjust with the new pressure and the new temperatures. Another issue with the cold season is related to depression, as many people find their mood drops when autumn starts. All these make chronic pain more intense and harder to cope with, but not impossible.

One of the most common ways to soothe a painful body is to stay warm, so invest in heating pads and warm clothes, which can help relieve soreness. Another trick is to rely on massages to get you through the day. You can do the massage yourself or ask someone, depending on the sore area. 

See this post to find the top 5 neck and shoulder heating pads comparison guide.

When you are in pain being cold triggers more pain, so make sure you are always warm. Dress with multiple clothes, like an onion, to keep an insulating layer of air between them. The more layers you have, the warmer your body will stay and you will be able to take them off as needed.

Another trick is to wear long clothes, which cover as much as possible of your body. Instead of wearing a short jacket, opt for a long coat, which covers your hips.

Some studies revealed that cold weather can make menstrual cramps and endometriosis worse. To relieve the pain you can rely on hot baths and pain medication. Add essential oils to your bath water and when you get out of the tub put on warm clothes.

Most people who were diagnosed with chronic pain already took courses and underwent therapy to learn how to cope with their pain. It might not sound much, but specialized pain management centers help people discover how they can accept the pain and live with it. At the same time, you are encouraged and helped to find the best tricks which make your pain more bearable.

It sounds too simple, but this is one of the best advises you can follow during cold season. Accept the fact your body is under more pain and just take everything easier. The first few weeks of cold weather are stressful for the human body, so don't try to push yourself during this time. Knowing when to step back and relax can go a long way when you suffer from chronic pain.