The winter season is a great time to take a break from the summer heat and enjoy the snow, but it can be dangerous for you and your family members. Here are some winter hazards to watch out for:
- Cold weather
The most common risks of cold weather include exposure to bacterial and viral pathogens. These diseases can be spread through contact with contaminated surfaces.
Although winter weather can be dangerous, there are ways to beat the cold. These include avoiding outdoor activities that are extremely cold and staying indoors. Certain health risks, such as dehydration, alcohol, smoking, and chronic diseases, are more common during the cold season. You should also be extra cautious if you plan to exercise outdoors. Being wet may lead to hypothermia, which can be fatal.
- Hypothermia
If you’re out and about in cold temperatures, you should take extra care to keep yourself warm. One way to do this is to wear layers of clothing. Avoid wearing tight clothes.
If you have hypothermia, it is very important to get to safety and visit a Temple emergency room for proper treatment. The symptoms of hypothermia can include shivering and confusion. Your speech may become slurred, and your skin might look bright red. You should also keep a close eye on the temperature of the room.
- Frostbite
You can prevent frostbite by dressing appropriately. You should avoid wearing thin or fingerless gloves that are too thick. You should also wear thicker socks, waterproof boots, and sturdy shoes. The lower part of your face is especially vulnerable to frostbite, so you should wear a mouth scarf to keep out the cold.
If you feel any symptoms of frostbite, visit an emergency room near you for medical help because severe cases of frostbite can be fatal. To prevent further damage to your skin, warm up the affected area using your body heat. Avoid rubbing or massaging frostbitten areas; this could damage the affected skin and increase pain.
- Raynaud’s phenomenon
For some people, exposure to cold weather and other environmental factors can cause Raynaud’s phenomenon. In these circumstances, the body tries to maintain a temperature by constricting the surface of blood vessels and moving blood deeper into the body. In some people, this process can be a life-threatening condition. In such cases, it is best to avoid exposure to the cold for a long time.
Raynaud’s phenomenon, also known as Raynaud’s syndrome, is an exaggerated response by the body’s arteries to cold and emotional stress. Symptoms include red and blue discoloration in the fingertips and toes and numbness in the affected digits. Although the mild symptoms can be managed at home, pharmacologic interventions, such as sympathetic blockade, may be necessary in more serious cases.
- Heart disease
The winter season presents a range of heart and blood vessel hazards, most of which can be prevented.
Cold temperatures can affect the blood vessels causing them to constrict, which raises blood pressure and can lead to a heart attack. People predisposed to a heart attack are also more likely to experience chest pains during these months, which is likely because they are experiencing increased stress and emotional factors. The colder weather also reduces the amount of daylight, reducing the body’s natural circulation.
Pay attention to blood pressure levels (if you are prone to heart attack) and visit an ER near you for assistance if you notice abnormal blood pressure.
- Slips and falls
Slips and falls can happen anywhere, but they’re especially common in the winter. Snow and ice on sidewalks, stairs, and other areas of your home can cause you to slip and fall if you don’t take steps to prevent it. Falls can be severe and cause injuries, so seek urgent care near you when you fall and hit your head or have fractures.
How to Prevent Winter Hazards?
Winter comes with cold temperatures and poor visibility, and it is crucial to stay warm in and outdoors. Also, watch out for slips and falls by using good footwear. Be aware of the poor lighting condition that comes with the winter season. It is advisable to wear high-protective and reflective clothing. Visit a 24-hour ER when you experience severe hypothermia or shortness of breath.
Schedule an Appointment
Make sure you know the hazards before going out on your next winter excursion. Visit Express Emergency Room Temple for more information on preventing winter hazards.
