Why do I build up such a static charge?

Question

Ok, that was vague, so let me explain.

The last year or so...nothing has physically changed, nor emotionally for that matter than any other period in my life, but for some reason I seem to be generating a large amount of static electricity.

Almost every single time I get out of the car, I get shocked. This never used to happen, I thought at first it was the car, but it happens with other cars as well.

Sometimes the shock is so severe I have a throbbing pain in my finger(s) for hours. (Only happened twice)

Does anyone know of some sort of physical condition that can alter the bodies electric charge? Hopefully, I won't spontaneously combust, lol.

Seriously though...it's frustrating, and a little nerve-wracking. Should I get a cat scan?

Thank LG, however I'm familiar with the meteoroligical events that can cause such a thing. I live in South FL where it's tropically humid 350/days a year.

My clothes...90% of which are the same I wore over a year ago, and the car is the same as well (which is why I'm thinking more medically.

It's very frustrating.

Another valid point.

I do have long hair, but this has only been happening for no more than a year and a half. I've had long hair..even longer hair years prior.

I've worn a dozen diff pairs of shoes in the last year or so...I don't recall what I was wearing exactly when the shocks are more frequent or less frequent.

My main concern is "why...all of a sudden?" Everything's been the same since 1994. But for some reason...I've been getting shocked recently.

Answer 1

Do you have long hair? When we lived in Virginia it happened to me too. I hated it and it hurts. I think its the weather, type of shoes, and hair rubbing, ect.
I started carrying dryer sheets in my pockets to help with the static. Though out the day, rub the ant-static cling dryer sheet over your clothes and hair. Also try to ground yourself before you touch the car. I would usually touch my husband first, then the car.

Answer 2

If you don't have a humidifier in you place, maybe try one. Or you could get some Static Guard, and spray your clothes, carpet, and uphostery, including in the car,and try spraying some on a cloth, and wipe the car surfaces where the charge originates.
Just a thought, but might be worth a try.

Answer 3

Probably don't need a cat scan.

Weather has a lot to do with static electricity. If it's very dry out you are more likely to generate static electricity.

Different clothing can also generate static electricity easier than other clothing (or seats in your car).

Answer 4

Here's a tip concerning the shock you receive when exiting an auto.....Grab a metal surface of the door and don't let go till you open the door and exit the auto. This will ground you from that nasty shock you usually receive..

Answer 5

The relative humidity has been very low lately. Try using a humidifier in your home. This will help.