Winter Wonderland

Whether we embrace or dread winter weather, there is no doubt that there are special safeguards we need to keep healthy and safe. We think of only absence of disease as being health but, in fact, it is just as important to be safe and to thrive. Emergency rooms in the winter see an abundance of accidents. 

Here are some thoughts on how to play it safe.

 

1. Slips and falls – Icy sidewalks are treacherous, especially for seniors. Take precautions, such as the use of well-treaded boots, or avoiding being outdoors during the icy days.
2. Cold exposure – There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing. Using layers and covering extremities such as hands and feet can prevent hypothermia and frostbite.
3. Car safety – Winter driving conditions can be hazardous. Ensuring your vehicle is winter ready and making sure that children are in car seats appropriate for height and weight can help with preventing a major cause of morbidity in the winter – accidents.
4. Embrace the cozy – One of the health hazards in winter is depression. Even when depression is not to the extent of being clinical, the winter blues can rob us of our ability to be well. In Denmark, they embrace the concept of hygge – the art of being cozy in the winter. Don’t lament the need to stay indoors but enjoy reading a book under a warm blanket.
5. Colds and flus – Being indoors with others increases our likelihood of becoming ill. Holiday gatherings increase that possibility. As in the pandemic, social distancing, staying home when ill and good hand hygiene can prevent the spread of viruses.

 

Have a happy and cozy winter, but above all, a healthy one!

 

Dr. Bhooma Bhayana is a family physician in London and the mother of two young men and proud grandmother of three! She continues to find wonder and enjoyment in family practice despite more than 30 years on the job!