The Worst Places to Live with Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread muscle pain, fatigue, sleep issues, and cognitive difficulties. Symptoms tend to flare with stress, weather changes, and over-exertion. Where you live can significantly impact your fibromyalgia symptoms. Certain environments can trigger flares or make symptoms feel more severe on a daily basis. If you have fibromyalgia, avoid living in these worst places that will make your symptoms harder to manage.
Cold, Damp Climates
Cold, damp climates are kryptonite for fibromyalgia. The cold exacerbates pain and stiffness in muscles and joints. Dampness seeps into bones and makes deep aching more pronounced. Frequent rain and snow also limit the ability to be outdoors and get sunlight and fresh air, which boosts mood and energy.
Some of the worst states to live in with fibromyalgia include:
- Alaska extremely cold and long winters
- Washington wet climate west of the Cascades
- Maine cold, wet weather majority of the year
- Michigan cold, lake-effect snow
Even smaller differences like living in the northern half of a state versus the southern portion can impact fibromyalgia symptoms.
Hot, Humid Climates
On the flip side, hot and humid climates pose challenges for managing fibromyalgia as well. Heat intensifies chronic pain and fatigue. Humidity makes pain feel heavier and more widespread through the body. Frequent storms can also trigger symptoms.
Avoid fibromyalgia flare-ups by staying away from these steamy locations:
- Florida extremely humid with summer storms
- Louisiana hot and humid majority of the year
- Alabama long summers with high humidity
- Mississippi consistently high humidly and heat index
Dry heat can also be problematic by exacerbating dehydration and causing headaches, muscle cramping, and dizziness.
Areas Prone to Extreme Weather
Places that experience frequent extreme or rapidly changing weather tend to be challenging for those with fibromyalgia. The constant atmospheric ups and downs wreak havoc on the body.
Some examples of areas prone to weather extremes include:
- Tornado Alley frequent severe thunderstorms and tornadoes
- Northeastern states rapid swings between cold snaps and heat waves
- Coastal regions like the Gulf Coast hurricanes and tropical storms
- The Plains states heavy snowstorms in winter, hailstorms in summer
Barometric pressure changes that accompany different weather triggers widespread body aches for many with fibromyalgia. Avoid areas known for dramatic weather shifts if possible.
High-Altitude Locations
Living at a high altitude can exacerbate fibromyalgia symptoms in multiple ways. The air is thinner so less oxygen circulates through the body, compounding fatigue and brain fog. The upper altitudes also tend to have more dramatic weather and temperature changes as well as strong winds.
A few high-elevation places to avoid include:
- Denver, Colorado
- Most of Utah
- Boise, Idaho
- Santa Fe, New Mexico
- Reno, Nevada
Even elevations between 2,000-5,000 feet can impact symptoms in sensitive individuals. The higher you go, the more pronounced the effects.
Remote, Isolated Areas
Living in remote, isolated areas far from amenities and medical care poses challenges for anyone with a chronic health condition. Long drives for supplies and doctors' appointments sap precious energy reserves. Fewer resources, services, and community support are available as well.
Some examples of remote areas that can be difficult with fibromyalgia include:
- Rural farmland
- Distant mountain towns
- Villages in Alaska
- Sparsely populated desert communities
- Tiny island towns
Being far from a support system of family and friends can take a mental health toll as well. Manageability should be considered above scenic views.
Noise and Light Polluted Areas
Environmental factors like noise and light pollution can make fibromyalgia symptoms feel more severe on a daily basis. Noise pollution from traffic, construction, noisy neighbors, etc. can hinder sleep and exacerbate headaches.
Excessive artificial light at night from streetlamps, signs, electronics, etc. also hinders sleep quality. Poor sleep makes pain, fatigue, and mental fog much more pronounced.
Avoid living in these noise and light polluted locations:
- Busy urban centers
- Area under airport flight paths
- Near highways, nightclubs, stadiums, etc.
- Bright, loud cities like Las Vegas or New York City
Seeking out a quiet neighborhood or small town with minimal light pollution at night can make a big difference in managing fibro symptoms.
Areas with Bad Air Quality
Poor air quality, pollution, allergens, and other irritants in the environment can cause flares for those with fibromyalgia. Smoke, smog, ozone, chemicals, dust, and strong scents are common triggers.
Places known for poor air quality to avoid include:
- Industrial cities
- Cities with heavy traffic congestion like Los Angeles
- Agricultural areas with pesticide usage
- Areas prone to wildfire smoke pollution
Seeking out locales with good year-round air quality and minimal seasonal allergens can aid fibromyalgia management.
High-Stress Cities
Big, bustling cities with a fast-paced, high-pressure environment can exacerbate fibromyalgia symptoms. Stress is a major trigger, and places with stressful vibes, overwork culture, long commutes, and sensory overload make flare-ups more likely.
Some notoriously high-stress cities include:
- New York City
- Washington, D.C.
- Los Angeles
- Chicago
- Seattle
Opt for a smaller community with a laid-back vibe. Proximity to parks, nature trails, recreation options, and arts/culture is also beneficial.
Where to Live with Fibromyalgia
While location can't cure fibromyalgia, living in an environment suited to your needs can make a notable difference in symptom management. The best places to live typically share these traits:
- Consistent mild climate with limited weather extremes
- Low-to-moderate humidity
- Low-to-moderate elevation and pollution/allergens
- Near medical care and amenities
- Quiet neighborhoods
- Smaller, low-stress communities
Everyone's needs vary, but places like coastal California, New Mexico, North Carolina, and parts of Hawaii are often highly recommended by fellow fibromyalgia sufferers for their favorable year-round conditions.
Create Your Optimal Living Environment with Fibromyalgia
Where you live makes a significant difference when you have a condition like fibromyalgia that is so impacted by external factors. While moving may not be feasible, you can tailor your home, community, and lifestyle to support symptom management as much as possible. Focus on rest, relaxation, proper treatment, and finding joy amid the challenges.
FAQs
Why are cold climates bad for fibromyalgia?
Cold weather exacerbates muscle stiffness, pain, and achiness in the joints for those with fibromyalgia.
How does weather impact fibromyalgia symptoms?
Temperature changes, barometric pressure shifts, humidity, and storms can trigger widespread body pain and fatigue in people with fibromyalgia.
Should I move to a different state to improve my fibromyalgia?
Relocating to a warmer, drier climate with fewer weather swings may significantly reduce symptoms for some patients.
What features make a location ideal for managing fibromyalgia?
Look for small, peaceful towns with mild weather, clean air, low humidity, low elevation, and abundant amenities and healthcare nearby.
Can living in a rural area be detrimental for fibromyalgia?
Yes, remote rural areas far from services and support systems can be challenging for handling chronic fibromyalgia.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
Add Comment