Handling those cold wintery days

Brrrr.. it is cold outside! Some helpful hints are available to help reduce physical issues related to these frigid temperatures.

Typically people experience or are exposed to the flu or cold during the cold weather. Caitlyn McGregor from the health unit explained the difference between the flu and cold - the flu has a sudden onset - symptoms include headache, sore throat, muscle aches. Further symptoms can be fatigue, fever, cough, decreased appetite, chills and a runny nose. Whereas, a cold is a mild respiratory infection of the upper respiratory passages which may last for weeks. Symptoms may include runny nose, stuffy nose, cough and sore throat. McGregor said symptoms like headaches, fever, muscle aches and nausea do not usually accompany a cold.

McGregor said if a person is sick, "Stay home, get plenty of rest, drink plenty of fluids, use over-the counter medications to relieve symptoms, disinfect common surfaces and children's toys."

She recommended ways to prevent the spread of germs during the winter months - "We recommend for that - wash hands often, cover your cough, sneeze into your sleeve, get your flu shot (it's never too late to get your flu shot - people can get it at the doctor's office or at the health unit - call ahead to make an appointment)."

McGregor did not want to comment about whether the traditional chicken soup or honey/lemon cures the cold. "Chicken soup is a remedy for the cold or flu - we do recommend lots of fluids," she said. "Also, people when they are sick do not want to eat. So if they can get chicken soup into them that is good because it is something nutritious and a fluid." She supposed these remedies may be helpful in replacing electrolytes.

She also suggested exercise and plenty of water - to stay hydrated. "Usually when their immune system is down is when these bugs will attach and take over. Follow the Canada's Food Guide - that would be a good recommendation," suggested McGregor.

Dealing with cold season blahs is one thing. Seasonal affective disorder or SAD is a seasonal form of depression which can be treated with full spectrum white lights (not to be confused with tanning lights!) or photo therapy. According to Ginny Ferguson from the Leeds Grenville Health Unit people who use them should consult a doctor. "For some who have SAD your best bet is to contact a doctor who deals with psychiatric illness," stated Ferguson.

Another aspect of winter, of course is shovelling. The health unit has provided useful information on shovelling without injuring oneself called, "The Scoop on Shovelling." It states, "Individuals over the age of 40, or those who are relatively inactive, should be especially careful. If you have a history of heart trouble, check with your doctor before shovelling. Avoid shovelling after smoking or eating a heavy meal. Warm up your muscles before shovelling by walking or marching in place, and do some stretches before and after shovelling. Dress in layers so clothing can be peeled off as the body becomes warm as overheating puts an extra strain on the heart. Push the snow in the same way a snow plow works, don't lift it. Stay hydrated by drinking water - in the cold air you can lose a lot of water through respiration and perspiration, take frequent breaks. Use a shovel with a small scoop to keep the loads small and light. Watch your posture - legs apart, knees bent, and back straight. Lift with your legs. Wear a hat, make sure hands and feet are warm and stop immediately if you feel tightness in your chest, shortness of breath, or pain of any kind. If you are over 45, inactive, smoke, have elevated blood pressure, are overweight, and/or have any heart conditions, it may be best to err on the side of caution and get someone else to do the shovelling for you."

There is also plenty of material about exercising caution in frigid weather if a person has asthma. Anyone diagnosed with asthma should take special care to wrap-up well, take prescribed medication or inhaler regularly. It emphasized that for some people, the symptoms of asthma are sporadic and mild, but for others an attack can be life threatening in its severity.

Of course, walking on slippery sidewalks can be dangerous. Therefore, be extra careful in order to avoid injury from slips and falls on icy footpaths. Ice and snow are leading to an increase in the number of people presenting with sprains and fractures as a result of slips and falls. Reduce the risk by wearing non-slip shoes or boots, walking slowly and keeping your hands out of your pockets to help protect you in the case of a slip or fall.