People are told to wear warm clothes, switch to afternoon walks, take flu vaccines
Hyderabad:With a severe drop in temperatures and cold wave conditions persisting across the state, doctors have advised citizens, especially the elderly and children, to observe precautions and protect themselves from the health effects of cold weather.
Flu like Influenza and Swine flu are likely to spread faster during the winter. Any virus that spreads through droplets via the air is more likely to get hold of people. "The natural defence mechanism of our nose goes down by 50-70 per cent with each drop of 4° Celsuis in temperature. Hence, there is an increased chance of catching infections. It is important to wear a plain surgical mask that will keep us warm and prevent us from viruses," said Dr T.N.J. Rajesh, consultant, internal medicine, Star Hospitals.
"It's getting cold, and people are beginning to tremble. It is six in the evening, and cold winds are blowing. During this time, there is a risk of influenza, the flu virus, and rhinovirus infections. These viruses are affecting people with asthma, COPD, and pneumonia, and they are even attacking healthy individuals. This is a particularly tough time for women, the elderly, and children," said Dr H. Guru Prasad, associate clinical director, internal medicine, CARE Hospitals.
Doctors suggest citizens get annual flu vaccines. "Every year, new vaccines come in with different strains. Hence, getting them annually reduces the risk of catching flu," Dr Rajesh said.
Dr Rajesh highlighted that the cold weather can lead to acute episodes of asthma in asthmatic patients. If the temperature drops down to as low as 5° Celsuis, the elderly may experience slow heart rate. If there are any blocks, it can even lead to heart failures. Cold weather causes decreased blood circulation to the peripheries of our body: hands, feet and ears. It leads to a greater chance of infection, if not a frostbite. Hence, keeping these parts warm is essential.
He also mentioned that morning walks should be replaced with afternoon walks, especially between 11 am and 2 pm, as it will help the body get the required amount of Vitamin D, important in this season.
"The change in weather also causes the skin to become pale and dry. The lips become chapped, and the face looks dull. The soles of the feet start to crack, and during this season, the body becomes itchy due to the decrease in moisture. During this period, baths should be for 5 to 10 minutes. Moisturise skin three to four times a day. Avoid walking barefoot. If the hands and feet are cracked, add a little salt to warm water and soak them for a while. Then, wipe the feet with a clean, dry cloth and massage with the right cream to reduce the cracks. Drink plenty of water. Avoid refrigerated food and water. Eat easily digestible foods," suggested Dr Guru Prasad.
"People suffering from diabetes, heart, and lung problems should get vaccinated first. Prolonged exposure to cold air can cause respiratory disease. People with respiratory problems should avoid going out during winter. Asthma sufferers must use inhalers. If you have a cold, cough, or fever, rest at home for two to three days and drink plenty of fresh water. If issues like cough and cold are ignored, there is a risk of infection. If people suffering from asthma and pneumonia do not take their medications in a timely manner, their condition may worsen. Delays in treatment can cause water to gradually enter the lungs," Dr Prasad added.
"Wear multiple layers of clothing to trap heat. If going outside is necessary, make sure to wear warm hats, scarves, gloves, and insulated footwear. When going outside, cover the nose and mouth with a scarf or mask to warm and humidify the air before it enters the lungs," advised Dr Praveen Kulkarni, senior consultant, internal medicines, KIMS Hospital.
"Cold air can cause the airways to constrict or tighten, leading to difficulty breathing, wheezing, and shortness of breath, more in people with underlying respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD as their airways are already more sensitive and prone to inflammation. Cold air can dry out the respiratory passages, leading to irritation and an increase in mucus production. The cold causes blood vessels to constrict, which can increase blood pressure and strain the heart. It can cause sore throat, exacerbation of sinusitis, nasal congestion and irritation, increased mucus production, nasal and throat dryness," Dr Kulkarni explained.
