12 Ways to Tell If It's Arthritis or Just Winter — How to Tell the Difference and When to See a Doctor

5. Swelling, warmth, and redness: signs of inflammation

Visible swelling, warmth to the touch, or red skin over a joint suggest active inflammation rather than a purely weather-related ache. These signs can appear with inflammatory arthritis flares, infections, or crystal-related conditions like gout. Mild swelling from osteoarthritis tends to be chronic and less warm or red, while inflammatory arthritis often causes joint warmth, tenderness, and sometimes fever. If you notice one joint becoming hot, red, or markedly swollen—especially with worsening pain—seek prompt medical evaluation because some causes need urgent treatment.

6. Function and range of motion loss

If a joint no longer moves like it used to, that signals structural change rather than a short-lived weather effect. Arthritis—especially osteoarthritis—can cause mechanical symptoms: catching, locking, grinding, or a reduced ability to perform everyday tasks like gripping a cup or climbing stairs. Weather pain usually causes discomfort but leaves functional range mostly intact once you warm up. Test this gently at home: try simple motions like opening and closing your hand, squatting, or lifting a light object. If movement is significantly limited, or function keeps getting worse, that’s a cue to contact your clinician.