winter — Blog — Tara Nelson

Why cold weather can trigger autoimmune flares

If you have an autoimmune condition like Hashimoto’s or Graves’, winter can hit harder. You might notice more fatigue, more inflammation, more flares.

Winter can be a challenge for anyone. But it can be particularly triggering for those who have one or more autoimmune conditions. And yes, that is the case even if your temperature regulation works well with colder weather (we’re looking at you, people with Graves’!)

So let’s take a look at why autoimmunity and colder weather are not a great mix, plus how you can reduce its impact.

Thyroid Health, Thyroid ConditionsTara NelsonJuly 4, 2025thyroid disease, autoimmunity, winter

Freezing this winter? Your thyroid might be to blame

Find yourself wearing thermals, gloves and fluffy socks when everyone else is comfortable with just a jacket? While some do feel the cold more than others, it can also be a sign that your thyroid is in need of some TLC.

Temperature sensitivity in winter is a common but often overlooked symptom of thyroid dysfunction. It could be general hypothyroidism triggered by something like a virus, or it could be undiagnosed Hashimoto’s.

Thyroid Health, Thyroid ConditionsTara NelsonJune 27, 2025winter, thyroid disease

Winter vs thyroid symptoms - how to tell the difference

In the colder months, there is a natural dip in energy levels. With shorter days, weaker sun, and chillier weather, our bodies instinctively slow down a little bit. So you might want to curl up on the couch earlier, eat more of your favourite comfort foods, and take things a little slower.

But where does winter sluggishness end, and something more serious begin?

We know that if you’re living with a thyroid condition like Hashimoto’s or hypothyroidism, winter can magnify your symptoms. But even if you’ve never had a thyroid diagnosis, what you’re dismissing as ‘just the winter blues’ or ‘wintertime fatigue’? Might actually be a sign that your thyroid isn't functioning at its best.

Thyroid Conditions, Thyroid HealthTara NelsonJune 21, 2025winter, winter blues, thyroid disease

Does hypothyroidism get worse over winter?

Do you notice your hypothyroid symptoms more when it’s cold outside? It’s not just you - there can be an increase in several common symptoms of an underactive thyroid. Let’s take a look at why this happens.