How to Protect Yourself in Winter Months

Winter is in full swing, which means it is time to take safety measures to take care of yourself. Winter presents a new variety of challenges including staying warm outdoors, using safety precautions while shoveling snow and deicing, plus everyday protection from cold and flu. This month, At Sisselman Medical Group, we’re focusing on helping you stay safe while facing New York’s coldest months. 

Staying Warm

This winter season, the eastern United States has already seen a few cold snaps nationwide, especially here in New York. While the cold can be annoying, it is important to take the proper precautions to maintain physical health. If you are not outfitted with the proper clothing, hypothermia, and other freezing illnesses can set in quickly. According to Penn Medicine, hypothermia starts to take effect when your internal temperature reaches 95°F. An average internal body temperature is typically around 98°, so if you are not protected, you are at risk of getting too cold. 

Who is at risk for a freezing injury? 

People who are in their 70s and onwards, plus those who are very young have an increased risk of staying warm during these cold months. Additionally, if you are malnourished, chronically ill, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you have a higher chance of getting a freezing injury. 

Protection Against the Cold

It is important to wear the correct clothing while you are outdoors in the winter. If the weather is under 32° wear a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat to keep your vulnerable extremities warm. Your fingers, toes, ears, and nose are among the body parts that are especially vulnerable to the cold since they do not have as much blood supply as your core. 

Consider Gadgets to Stay Warm

In today’s world, we have a variety of gadgets available to us to keep us warm. Try some new inventions like a heated jacket, or reusable hand warmer. You may also consider a remote car starter to warm up your car before driving.

Slips and Falls

Slips and falls are common injuries we treat at Sisselman Medical Group during winter months. Before heading out to work or the grocery store, it is important that you are aware of your surroundings. If temperatures have reached freezing or below, look for ice to avoid slipping. If you must shovel your sidewalk or deice your car, a layer of salt can help melt the ice and snow to avoid falling. 

When shoveling snow, it is also important to protect your back. Make sure that you are bending from the knees to maintain the correct spine posture to avoid a sore or stiff back. It is also important to understand the limitations of your body. Don't attempt to shovel too much snow at once. Additionally, if you are older, consider enlisting someone else to take on your snow shoveling duties. 

Flu, Covid-19, RSV and other cold viruses

Cold months bring an uptick in common illnesses, which is why you must take the necessary precautions to protect yourself from sickness. First, make sure you are vaccinated to increase your chance of avoiding illnesses like Influenza, RSV and COVID-19. Otherwise, use tools like masks and hand sanitizer to reduce the risk of germs.

 
If you do find yourself in need of healthcare due to winter illness and injury, please contact a medical care provider at Sisselman Medical Group to find care today.