Hi guys we have booked to go visit Poland in January (( it's hubby's birthday )). We've always wanted to do the history tours of Auchwitz and salt mines and as my mobility is decreasing we've decided to just go for it now while we can!
So...question is does extreme cold make you better, worse or not much change? Apparently it will be 0 to -5 in krakow in January! M x
Hi Marie! Your trip sounds lovely. I visited Krakow and the salt mines a few years back and it was great - the city is beautiful and full of history, and the salt mines were amazing. I went to Krakow in the summer, but I often visit Germany in the winter, which is probably similar temperatures. I don't find that the cold affects my RA, but I don't like being cold. If you are going to be outside much I would take plenty of vests, and tights to wear under trousers, and snow boots if you have them. Hope you have a fab time!
I live in the mountains, where it can get down to -20 in winter. It was -5 last night. I like the cold and find it quite energising. It's the grey dampness of England that I can't cope with!
And it's fine as long as you are properly equipped. So silk liners for your gloves, proper socks, hat and something for your ears. Take shoes that have a thick sole and good grip, that will insulate you and stop you skidding on ice.
I found the salt mines felt colder as they were damp and slightly clammy. For the Auchwitz visit take a big hanky or tissues, you'll need them.
I agree damp cold of England is worse than proper cold. We go skiing most years and have had it down to -18. I would get some cheap skiing thermals. Asda & Matalan often have some at this time of year. Also ALDI & Lidl have skiing stuff in their special offers. Just look out for when they are arriving in store.
Have a lovely trip!
Hi Marie
That sounds like a wonderful trip to take during the winter.
I love the cold and find that the weather doesn’t affect my RA.
I was in Europe this last summer and there was a heatwave. I came back through Gatwick in a wheelchair.
Unfortunately, stress is my trigger and it is very hard to manage everyday stress.
I’ve was diagnosed with RA for 5 years ago and am yet to find out what remission feels like.
Have a fab holiday.
M x
Hi, Odly enough i have found both the cold and the warm temprature can have the same affects but saying that it can affest each of us in different ways certainly cold tempratures to that extreme i would make a point of keeping fully wrapped up,
PS I would love to visit that part of the world but probably never will ah well have a great time.
Cheers
I think the cold worsens my flexibility but not the pain. As long as I have suitable clothing for the weather it's OK. So plan for good quality padded coat, a warm hat and padded gloves or mittens with silk liners and good generously lined boots with plenty of room for warm socks and space to wiggle your toes.
Cold weather 
Feeling Cold with RA 
the cold
I shall not be defeated by RA!
