Winters are different if you have rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia. There are a list of things to do:
Checks:
- Flu jabs - I can no longer take this, had a severe allergy reaction two years ago.
- Central heating is working
- Larder and fridge stocked up for bad weather days and have instant food for flares
- Double check your utility tariffs - you don't want to be caught with surprise increases
- Additional quick heating available for mornings that are exceptionally cold ( I saw my post from 2009 about my heater fan - it is one of the best investments I have ever made!)
- Antiseptic alcohol hand gel - very important to prevent catching cold/flu when going out
- Disinfectant sprays for the home/office - again flu prevention
- Shoes/Boots have good grips/soles in good conditions
- Supply of stockings, thermals, gloves!
- Supply of small towels and a working microwave for my hot towel compress ( sooth stiff joints)
- Coat/winter wear in good condition - check buttons etc etc. Don't want to deal with buttons in the middle of flare
- Omega 3 supplements and multivitamins
- Medicine cupboard - I now stock antiviral for flu, and the usual cough and cold medicines
- Stock up on heat plasters/muscle rubs which feels warm instead of cool
- Working from home arrangements in place
- Lavender essential oils to scent the home :)
- Check other "supplies" e.g. detergents etc
Despite the long list, it is central to a few things:
- Keeping warm
- Avoiding flu/cold which triggers my RA/fibromyalgia
- Things are in place in case I get a flare - able to work from home, prepare food etc, and not having to do extras and having the medicines etc
- Prepared for bad weather - not having to go out if it is too bad, not falling down on icy streets!
The list has grown shorter - thank goodness. We no longer have a car - that will be a separate list. We also live in a block of well maintained flats now, so I don't need to stock up with some really cheap salt for the iced over corridors and pathways.
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