Even though I live in a warmer climate now.I hate it when it gets cold (in the 30's). I know; I'm a baby. I was raised in the North Eastern USA, so I know what real cold is. I get reclusive, and all i want to do is sleep. The extreme dips, and increases in temperature really make MG flare.

Good advice XMas. Just like the heat, I can only take the cold in small amounts. I'm just getting over a sinus infection and bronchitis, so when you mentioned physical exertion and SOB while being out in the cold, I could completely relate.

Our high-temp in Southern Ohio today was 15 above, but the fireplace ain't gonna feed itself. When I'm outside shuffling firewood, I always pace myself, I wear a hat/gloves and a scarf over my mouth and nose, and a good winter coat.

A lot of it for me is attitude, or how you look at things {frequently mine is (-) }. The firewood keeps me at least a little active in the winter, helps me to get some sunshine and fresh air, and keeps my house warm (and helps lower the electric bill).

But you're right, the cold arctic air is good for no one. Protect yourself if you must go out, and do not overexert.

Take Care !!!

Oh, I can relate to this so much at the moment. Not only does the arctic air worsen my MG but is intensifies my fibromyalgia to the enth degree. (Pun intended)

The problem for me begins with the shivering. Once it starts, my body just stiffens up and it sucks all energy and strength from me in no time. It's like my body is filled with super glue or something. Even the warmest coat, scarf, hat, etc can't break the stiffness. The only thing that really breaks it is a heated blanket. Then I have to pay close attention because if I leave that on too long the heat will zap me too. It's a delicate balance of temperatures for me. The ideal temp is approximately 74 degrees.

So for me, I stay home whenever possible. I don't get out unless there is an absolute need to accomplish something. Not just because of the weather but because people are sick with colds and flu. I can't afford to end up sick from a health perspective. It seems every time I get sick I end up in the hospital. I know many of you have the same concerns.

Stay warm and safe everyone! Hugs!!

It's funny you mention other sick people. I very seldom get colds or resp infections. But husband always does. Even with 3 little grandkids around .besides washing hands I turn my head when ever someone coughs, hold my breath as long as I can . I'm like the old lady who always has tissues tucked in unmentionable places along with sanitizer. when grandkids cough I put my arm up and pretend . Instead of saying over and over cover your mouth please. We aren't allowed to share cups or food in my house and no kisses on the mouth .they also had strep last week but not nana who took care of them for 7 days and a few nights in bed with me! In spite of 40 prednisone

Wow! Great job at protecting yourself. I don't get a lot of colds but I've had the flu more times than I can count.

(A little education about a cold vs flu. I've learned the hard way.)
I'm not talking about being really sick and just calling it the flu. I mean the ACTUAL flu. It's important to know the difference between a really bad cold and the flu. Usually a cold starts slowly with a runny nose and sore throat. Typically, colds do not come with a fever but it can happen. There is often a cough, sneezing, fatigue and facial pressure. The Flu hits you VERY suddenly with fever (often a high fever of 101 or greater), extreme body aches, severe headache, no appetite and extreme fatigue. Most people can still function with a cold. Even a bad one but you cannot function with the flu (and you shouldn't).

Anyway, I've learned how to keep myself safe in a world full of sick people. Since I am on immunosuppressants, I have to protect myself. Nobody cares that my immune system is compromised. Especially when they feel like crap. They just want to feel better and keep on doing what is important to them. So like you, I do what I can to protect me from the germs of others. I wear a mask on planes, don't visit others when they are ill (infectious), cover my face with tissue or in my arm when others sneeze/cough, etc. It's the smart thing to do and we should all do the same.

Stay safe and healthy everyone. Do what you can to protect yourself from the public germs and stay warm folks.

HUGS for all!