We wait for the colder months to enjoy the festivals and holidays. Moreover, the chilly days tempt us to curl up with an interesting book, watch Netflix, and relax. But did you know that freezing weather carries the possibility of numerous illnesses in addition to the cheerful spirit? No, I’m not referring to the typical cold and flu, but potentially fatal conditions.
Hence, several cities offer winter activities to help maintain physical and mental health. For instance, Mississauga offers safe activities like city-operated outdoor ice rinks, toboggan hills adventure, trails, hometown sports, etc. We can’t escape the consequences of chilly weather in such cities. The weather in Mississauga is usually cold, and it experiences snow several times a year. Hence, activities are essential to keep the body warmer and maintain health.
We don’t have any choice but to cope with extreme chills if we live there. In such a scenario, staying informed about cold weather hazards and understanding how to avert them becomes essential. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the subject that can assist you further.
The Health Dangers of Low Climatic Temperatures
Cold weather gives birth to serious health problems. Here is a list of such ailments that you may not even be conscious of.
Hearth Issues
No, I’m not kidding; a severe cold may cause cardiovascular problems such as a heart attack. The reason being cold weather causes our blood vessels to constrict. As a result, more significant strain is put on restricted arteries and veins to push the blood. Hence, blood pressure rises, causing heart ailments.
We love to consume more comfort food during the winter, which typically includes junk food. Such unhealthy eating shoots up the cholesterol level in our bodies, leading to cardiac arrest or a heart attack. So, if you are a heart patient, avoid comfort foods.
Asthma
In the winter, you may have suffered from respiratory problems. Such an issue arises when the arteries in our chest constrict and swells. Our breathing rate increases, and we may need to breathe through our mouths. The dry air enters the lungs through the mouth. As a result, the odds of airway infection increase, resulting in Asthma.
Diabetes
Because of the carbs and cholesterol present in junk food, unhealthy eating elevates blood sugar levels. In addition, low temperatures also cause colds and flu. Our bodies release hormones, which induce blood sugar levels to rise to combat such infections. To avert diabetes, you should avoid processed foods and prevent typical winter troubles. And If you are a diabetic patient, you should regularly keep track of your blood glucose levels.
Frostbite
When exposed to extreme cold for an extended amount of time, your skin and tissues freeze. That is frostbite, and it can cause significant and chronic blood vessel and tissue damage. Ears, fingers, nose, and toes are common frostbite targets. However, frostnip, a symptom of frostbite, serves as a warning sign. A sign like this allows us to take precautions and avoid frostbite. The most common symptoms are reddened and numb skin.
Mental Health Problems
Have you ever heard of the term “winter blues”? It is a state in which a person is mentally drained or tired. People may also experience mood swings, irritation, anxiety, exhaustion, short depression, and suicidal thoughts. Seasonal Affective Disorder is the official name for this ailment, and it is most commonly diagnosed during cold weather. The explanation behind this is a lack of sun exposure. As a result, our bodies produce less serotonin happy hormones, and we suffer from SAD.
Hyperthermia
Hyperthermia is a condition in which the body heat rapidly falls. As a result, your body temperature drops significantly, putting you in danger of respiratory disorders, heart problems, and even death. To avoid the potentially dangerous situation, recognize the signs such as slurred speech, shivering, lack of focus, and ragged breathing.
Some Suggestions to Help You Survive the Freezing Months
Here are some recommendations to help you stay happy and fit during the winter. These suggestions will also assist you in avoiding the significant health issues discussed above.
Arthritic patients should drink plenty of fluids and stretch often to ease joint stiffness.
Cardiac patients should avoid strenuous physical activity.
Consume vitamin C-rich foods to boost your immune system.
To stay warm, cover each portion of your body. It helps to prevent hyperthermia and frostbite, and other winter health issues.
Exercise regularly to maintain your fitness and allow your body to release happy hormones. Seasonal Affective Disorder will be avoided by happy hormones, relieving you of mental tension.
Asthmatic individuals must wrap a scarf around their faces to inhale warm air.
Ensure good hygiene to prevent not just infections but also allergies.
Make sure you get enough sleep.
To avoid skin dryness, moisturize your skin regularly.
Avoid alcoholic beverages and cigar smoking.
Final Word
That’s all you needed to know about the adverse effects of chilly days on health. I hope you found the guide helpful. If you are a person who stays in a place that experiences harsh winter, then this is a must-follow guide. Let’s say you are from Mississauga. The winter weather in Mississauga is severe. Hence, it would be best to take precautions; otherwise, surviving would become difficult.
