Keeping Your Health In Check During The Winter
Health and wellness are important all year long. Winter brings cold, dry weather and there are many different health problems that arise during winter months. Here are some common health concerns, along with tips to help you over the colder months.
Arthritis
About 1 in 4 US adults suffer from arthritis. According to the Arthritis Foundation, cold temperatures and changes in weather pressure can affect arthritis and joint pain.
Here are some ways to find some relief from arthritis pain this winter:
- Wear warm comfortable clothing.
- Stretch and keep active to increase strength and flexibility.
- Exercise indoors.
Asthma
People often find their asthma triggers get worse over winter. Seasonal triggers include cold weather, dry air, cold and flu season, and indoor allergens.
You can look after your asthma during the winter by:
- Staying warm.
- Limiting time and exercise outdoors.
- Using a humidifier to help ease your breathing.
If you have asthma and have any concerns about winter triggers, meet with your doctor and create an asthma action plan.
Bronchitis
Bronchitis is common in the winter because it often comes after a cold, flu, or sore throat. With acute bronchitis, you may experience a cough, shortness of breath, and tiredness. Chronic bronchitis has similar symptoms, but they can be more severe or long-lasting.
- Wash your hands frequently to avoid spreading germs and viruses
- Avoid smoking to help to protect you against bronchitis.
Colds and Flu
Wash your hands often through the cold and flu season (late fall to early spring), avoid touching your nose, mouth, and eyes, get plenty of sleep and avoid people who are sick.
The CDC recommends getting a flu shot each year because the virus mutates and changes every year.
Dry Skin
Dryness can cause redness, itching, rough patches, flakiness, cracks, and stinging on the raw parts of the skin.
- Moisturize more than usual, especially after taking a bath or shower.
- Wear scarves and gloves when outside to cover exposed skin.
Sore Throats
Sore throats are common in the winter because of temperature changes, like going from warm indoor temperatures to cold outdoors. Sometimes a sore throat is a sign of strep throat, but this is not specifically a winter problem. Strep throat is more common in children than adults.
A sore throat that starts quickly, pain with swallowing, and fever are some of the common signs and symptoms of strep throat.
Try to stay healthy and safe this winter.
Remember to get your flu shot, wash your hands, get plenty of rest and avoid people that are sick.
Sometimes you can’t prevent winter health problems, talk to your primary care provider for treatment when you experience symptoms.
