Because we don’t get outside in wintertime as often as we do in warmer months, it sometimes seems as if we catch more colds, flu and downright irritating viruses than at any other time of year. On the other end of the spectrum, winter is a time for outdoor sports, but many novices trying skiing or ice skating for the first time may find themselves laid up for weeks, if not longer, due to sprained or broken ankles or knees. A handful of winter health tips can help keep you active and healthy during winter months, says the Illinois Department of Public Health.
Prevent Cold and Flu
To avoid colds and flu during winter months, wash your hands often and thoroughly. While it may go against the grain, try turning the thermostat down to increase humidity in the home, suggests the Illinois Department of Public Health. Doing so helps keep the mucous membranes in the nasal cavities moist and protected against airborne bacteria and germs.
Stay Warm Indoors and Out
When you’re outdoors, protect yourself from hypothermia, or lowered body temperature, says the Illinois Department of Public Health. Elderly persons and small children are more sensitive to cold than others and may experience drops in body temperature if exposed to cold or chill for long periods of time. For older individuals, set the thermostat at 65 degrees F.
Outdoors, wear warm clothing and keep a hat on to prevent heat from escaping through the scalp. Even if you get a little warm, avoid taking off outer jackets or clothing, which is often a major trigger for hypothermia. Instead, layer clothing so you can relieve yourself of some clothing without exposing yourself to frigid air or wind.
Protect the Skin
When outdoors, help protect your skin against cold and chafing by applying a light layer of petroleum jelly to the face, hands and ears, suggests Reader’s Digest. Wear lip balm to help prevent dry, cracked lips and protect the eyes from snow glare by wearing tinted shatterproof sunglasses or goggles when out snowshoeing, skiing or snowboarding.
Avoid Injury
Avoid slips and falls that may cause sprains or broken bones by wearing winter-smart shoes. That means shoes that have rubber and thick-knobbed soles that offer more solid footing, suggests Reader’s Digest. When walking on hard snow or ice patches, walk like a duck, taking small steps and watching where you place your foot. Keep your hands out of your pockets so you can keep your balance or try to protect yourself if you slip.
About this Author
Denise Wang is an experienced freelance writer and editor. She has written professionally for seven years, and is a published fiction author. She regularly provides content for health-related and elder-care websites. She is currently completing coursework for a degree in health information management from Penn Foster College.
