You know winter is upon us when the first thing you reach for in the morning is your sheepskin slippers and a hot cup of tea. It is hard to get motivated, hard to get out and about and harder still to get that body moving. On top of this, although it is not widely talked about winter can also be a very dangerous time. So what can we do to stay well this winter? Holly Richardson investigates.
Dr Naomi Harris, a spokesperson for the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, says it is great to stay active during the winter months but remember not to overdo it. Cold weather causes blood vessels to constrict, which increases the risk of heart attack for people with heart disease or other conditions that strain the heart’s ability to pump blood.
While many suffer the common cold, the flu on the other hand is a serious illness that can be fatal in young children, older adults, and people with chronic medical conditions such as asthma and heart disease.
Registered nurse Kathryn from the Nurses on Call program, believes the number one thing to do as winter encroaches is to get a flu shot. The vaccine offers some, if not complete, protection against the flu and can be administered as early as March each year.
Statistics show that more home fires happen during the winter months than any other time of the year, mainly due to home heating devices. And if you are over the age of 65, you are three times more likely to be injured. Another concern are those appliances fuelled by gas, wood or kerosene, in a closed up home they produce carbon monoxide gas, which can be deadly.
These simply tips could save your life: Install not just smoke detectors but carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home and remember to check the batteries monthly. Invest in a multipurpose fire extinguisher for the home and learn how to use it. And if you have an open fireplace, remember to have the flue pipe checked yearly and a large screen in front to catch sparks and rolling logs.
Something we often don’t think about in winter is the need for additional auto safety. The Royal Automobile Club of Western Australia recommends checking your vehicle or getting it serviced to ensure tyres have enough tread and correct pressure, that the radiator’s anti-freeze levels are right, the belts are free from leaks or cracks, that the oil is of a thinner grade for better performance in cold conditions, the wipers are working with plenty of fluid to ensure visibility and that the battery is fully charged.
Once out of your car and at your destination, the most dangerous thing about winter conditions is the increased chance of slipping. “Something as simple as a fall can be devastating” says Dr Evelyn Granieri. It is extremely common but can be avoided by choosing shoes with non-skid soles and using handrails whenever possible. Rocks or sand can be put on walkways used most often.
If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, then the organisation Alzheimer’s Australia recommends installing alarm systems that signal whenever an outside door is opened. A person who wanders from home without proper clothing in the winter can quickly fall victim to hypothermia.
Got the winter blues? You are not alone. Beyond Blue warns depression is more common in the winter months, and bad weather can mean social isolation for many. Make efforts to spend time with family, friends and neighbours, and if visiting is difficult, pick up the phone for a chat or try a social network online.
For overall health this winter dietician Carly Ambrose says just stick to the basics, “maintain a healthy diet and a good level of hydration”. Eat seasonal foods, like root vegetables in warming soups. She reminds us to drink our four or five glasses of water every day. This should not change just because it is winter. It is also a good idea to keep your skin hydrated. Wearing more protective creams and lotions will prevent the dry and itchy skin commonly experienced in the colder months when humidity levels are lower.
The Nurse on Call service provides immediate access to a registered nurse over the phone, 24 hours a day, right across Australia, for the cost of a phone call, dial 1300 NURSE ON CALL.
Surviving winter fitness
When the cold, damp weather is upon us, it’s often the easy option to shut ourselves indoors and hibernate. However if you can it is best to keep active during the winter months.
If you’re steady enough on your feet, getting outside in winter can be invigorating, bringing some much needed colour to your cheeks. Take a few simple measures to keep you healthy.
Wear suitable clothing – fabrics that breathe such as cotton and wool, keep moisture away from your skin.
Bright, reflective clothing is necessary to remain visible.
Wear a hat – one third of a body’s heat loss is through the head.
Layer up – several light layers are more effective than large bulky clothing. Air trapped between layers keeps you warm and if you get too hot, or start to sweat, you can remove as many as you need.
Slippery surfaces – wet or icy ground can be dangerous and exercising in daylight will reduce the likelihood of tripping.
Drink up – just because it’s not as warm as summer, doesn’t mean you don’t need to keep your fluid levels up.