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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Where should I move to for some RA relief?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Naperville, IL

I have lived in the Chicago area my whole life. I was diagnosed with RA less than a year ago and mostly deal with fatigue. My health is worst when it's cold and rainy. Has anyone seen real, lasting relief by living in a different climate? Where would you recommend?

April 9, 2016
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Answer Summary

Members shared their experiences with how different climates affect their rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, with the overwhelming consensus being... Read more

Members shared their experiences with how different climates affect their rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, with the overwhelming consensus being that warm, dry climates provide the most relief from joint pain and stiffness, while cold, humid, and rapidly changing weather tends to worsen symptoms. Several members recommended locations like Arizona (Phoenix and Scottsdale), Southern California, Florida, Southern Utah, and New Mexico, with many describing the benefits of consistent warmth and dry air, though noting that extreme summer heat, cold desert nights, and seasonal weather changes can still trigger flares. A recurring theme was the importance of considering lifestyle factors beyond just weather when choosing where to live, including job opportunities, social connections, cost of living, and access to activities you enjoy, with one member emphasizing that making an informed decision requires listing what matters most to you personally in a city.

A myRAteam Member

I always feel better in a warm consistent climate UK bad Spain good!!!

April 13, 2016
A myRAteam Member

Silly is correct, dry weather is the best, and personally for me there's nothing more soothing than the warm sun on my skin and bones... It's very therapeutic and makes it hurt less. I tell people I'm like a lizard. Unfortunately the chemo drug Mtx and planequil, sulfa you're supposed to stay out of the sun. New Mexico weather changes a lot and that affected me out of a week I would have maybe 2-3 good days. But then again my RA wasn't controlled like now. Here in California I still have flares but mostly when a storm is passing and thank goodness (for me) it's small and in between cos then I'll be in pain too much

April 18, 2016
A myRAteam Member

I hate cold and rainy with a passion. Much better in Florida, but we live in North Florida and I love to head down to the Ft. Myers area where it's even warmer as winter in North Florida is not warm enough for me! Moist hot heat seems to help me tremendously.

April 15, 2016
A myRAteam Member

I live 50 miles north of St. George, Utah which has a much lower altitude than Cedar City, and thus a climate similar to Mesquite and Las Vegas, Nevada. I always feel better when I visit my rheumy in St. George. Higher altitude and a harsher,more humid climate mean more pain.

April 13, 2016
A myRAteam Member

My mother had more trouble in Modesto, but I loved ot. New Mexico, the Albuquerque area is good because we rarely have extreme weather in any direction.

April 13, 2016

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