Tips to stay away from common winter health problems

When we think of winter, we tend to think about ourselves getting comfortable in our cosy bed. Sleep during the winter season in our cosy bed can be heavenly, and slipping out of bed will be tedious. After we get out of bed, we also crave a hot drink like coffee, tea or hot chocolate.

These are some of the positive images of the winter season. On the other hand, winter is also called the flu season. Major health issues arise during the winter season. During winter, the humidity of the air increases and there are chances for viruses to spread through the air.

Some of the common winter health illness and tips to stay away from such illness is discussed below in this blog.

Common winter problems

Health is important throughout the year, irrespective of the season. For example, during the summer season, sunburns and heat strokes are common. Likewise, during the winter season, the following health issues are common.

Flu

Flu is something that is common throughout the year, and in colder months, the occurrence and intensity may increase. Flu gets transmitted through airborne droplets, and when coughed or sneezed, it can infect other people.

Many species of viruses can cause the common cold. Apart from the flu, the common cold occurrence can also be common. Flu shots can help protect yourself from these kinds of seasonal infections and also provides immunity.

Dry skin

Another common problem that occurs during winter is dry skin. In most cases, itching can be accompanied by dry skin. This can lead to scars, and in severe cases, it can cause bleeding.

Sometimes, people experience cracks in the skin along with pain. This cracked skin can become a growth site for fungal infection which can later lead to major complications.

Cold sores

Cold sores occur due to the climate. During winter, the environmental temperature goes down, which can lead to cold sores. These cold sores can cause small, tiny blisters with fluid around or near the lips.

Cold sores mainly occur due to the sharp temperature drop and the harshness of the cold. Due to dry and cold air, the lips dry out and lose their moisture fully, which can make the cold sores worse. These cracked lips can make a person more susceptible to the herpes virus.

Asthma

Winter season has the ability to trigger asthma. During the winter season, the presence of small allergens increases and these allergens can trigger asthma attacks.

Additionally, the cold air can irritate the airways, which makes it worse. As a result, the production of mucus increases, which can trigger asthma.

Even if you stay indoors, this will help you to some extent. Likewise, staying indoors can also increase illness.

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

Depression during winter season is very common, and there are many people who experience such seasonal disorders. These disorders that are seasonal are called a seasonal affective disorder.

The cold and winter greyness, lack of warmth and short days can make a person sick. Seasonal depression can make a person mentally underactive, which can lead to stress and other health illness.

Joint pain

Joint pain increases during the winter season for people affected with arthritis. The cold weather can trigger joint pain, and in rare cases, it leads to immobility. However, the cause of joint pain during the winter season is still unknown.

One main cause may be due to decrease in the barometric pressure, which causes the tendons and the tissues to expand. The body will have a defined space, and due to the expansion of the muscles and tendons, it can lead to pain.

Tips to stay away from

Some simple tips and home remedies can work for these winter health issues.

Dry, itchy skin

For dry, itchy skin, you can use moisturisers and creams. Choose the correct cream according to your skin type. Not all creams will work for everyone. So, if you have severe dryness and itchiness, consult your doctor and then use the creams that are prescribed by your doctor.

Avoid long hot showers, as this can lead to more dryness and irritate the skin more. Try to bathe in warm water and use a mild soap. Wear appropriate winter clothes to protect your skin from frostbite.

Seeking help for persistent itching

If you have persistent itchiness, consult your doctor. Sometimes, a normal moisturiser will not work during winter, and these moisturisers can irritate the skin. So, consult a dermatologist before using any topical creams.

Arthritis pain

To reduce arthritis pain, wear some clothes that can cover your body fully. Protect your joints from cold breezes to avoid the expansion of tendons and tissues. Mild exercise can help with joint pain, and people with arthritis should consult their doctor before performing any workouts.

Depression

When you feel depressed, try to talk to someone. Do not stay indoors for long, and when you feel low, talk to a friend.

You can also get help from a professional psychiatrist. They will recommend some mental exercises that can cope with depression.

Colds and viruses

Common colds and viral infections can be common during winter season. Consume hot foods and avoid cold drinks. Do not leave the food open for long, and avoid consuming stale foods. Cook the food and consume it when it is hot.

Try to avoid consuming refrigerated foods. When you consume foods from the refrigerator, make sure you heat them to the appropriate temperature and then consume it. Foods that are not heated properly can be a breeding ground for many microorganisms.

Seasonal flu can be prevented with proper flu shots. This will enhance your immunity and gives you protection from viruses.

Weight gain

During the cold season, our craving for food increases, and we tend to consume fried foods. These unhealthy foods can add extra calories. And apart from calories, it can cause bloating and other gastrointestinal tract infections.

Additionally, during the winter season, physical activity reduces, and sedentary behaviour increases due to the cold weather. This can also be a reason for gaining weight.

Frostbite

Frostbite can be caused due to a drop in temperature. It leads to the freezing of the skin and its tissues. Avoid going out at night, especially when there is a sharp drop in temperature.

Dress according to the weather. Do not wear loose clothes. Wear woollen clothes and a headband that covers your ears. This can protect your skin from cold weather.

Socks and gloves protect your hands and legs from the cold breeze. These clothes can provide insulation to some extent.

When to see a doctor?

Some of these problems can be common during winter. However, consult your doctor if you have these symptoms.

• Cough that lasts for more than a week.
• Production of discoloured mucus.
• Cracked skin that does not heal even after applying moisturiser.
• Chills that are accompanied by high temperatures.

Conclusion

Health issues can be common throughout the year. But some health illnesses can get aggravated during the winter season. Try to stay indoors at night. And if you have the necessity to go out at night, wear proper clothes to avoid getting cold sores and frostbite.

Skin problems can also be common during the winter season. So, moisturise yourself adequately. If you have sensitive skin consult a dermatologist and then use the correct moisturiser for your skin type.

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