COMMON PROBLEMS DURING WINTER AND HOW TO CHEEK THEM

Now winters are knocking and with in no time we will have to face then , once can enjoy winters provided you are mentally ,physically and medically prepared ,Have you ever thought  why most od under mentioned diseases come around every winter season? these are few of them for which we must prepare our self :-

Influenza

One of the most common diseases is the flu (influenza). The flu is a respiratory disease most commonly accompanied by a headache, fever, cold, body aches, chills, fatigue and cough. Typically the flu is highly-contagious and can spread to others via airborne droplet form. Between 10 - 20 percent of the population contracts the flu each year. It can come on suddenly and is more serious and long-lasting than a regular cold. Flu. Flu vaccine remains the best way to prevent and control influenza however high level of personal hygiene and right amount of winter clothing specially in the head and chest. A new flu shot is needed every year chest minimizes the chance of being getting infected

Common Cold

The common cold , which attacks all ages,  however, children are especially vulnerable. On average, a child will get four to eight colds per year. The good thing is that as children grow, they develop resistance to more and more types of cold viruses Colds typically start with a scratchy, irritated throat, muscle aches, headache, decreased appetite and sneezing. There is no vaccine for the common cold as there are more than 200 types of cold viruses. Treatment is usually aimed at the symptoms and as the old adage goes, “A cold will disappear in a week if you treat it and it will go away in seven days if you don’t.”
To avoid ill effect of common cold , practice healthy habits, such as eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, exercising, doing your best to keep stress in check, drinking plenty of fluids, and wearing warm cloths  for the weather.

Heart Disease Complications

During colder seasons, heart disease tend to increase because the cold temperatures cause the blood vessels to constrict, which can inevitably put a person on high risk for stroke, myocardial infarction and artery rupture. Additionally, people who work  outside performing tasks that require considerable effort, such as workers on constriction site, policing, truck drivers ect  will have extra strain on the cardiovascular system. Anyone with a cardiovascular condition should check with their physician before exerting themselves in cold weather. and must cover their head legs and hands properly.

Arthritis

Arthritis is another condition that may be triggered during cold weather. Most people who suffer from arthritis will agree that cold, damp weather increases their arthritis pain If the cold weather bothers your arthritis pain, keep moving! Your joints need exercise as it helps to lubricate them to prevent/reduce pain. Supplements and vitamin D help in some cases  however Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins K and C have been noted to curb inflammation and pain associated with arthritis.

Mental Health

Mental health issues, such as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), often follow climatic changes, with sufferers experiencing extreme depression during the long, dark, cold days of winter. SAD is believed to be linked to levels of melatonin, a hormone that is influenced by light, which promotes sleep. Sufferers generally experience total loss of interest, problems with sleeping and eating, irritability, and a pervasive depressed mood. Physicians commonly prescribe light therapy and antidepres¬sants to ease the symptoms of SAD.

Frostbite

Frostbite is a seasonal concern for those who live in a cold environment. Frostbite is an injury to the body due to freezing and causes a loss of feeling and color in affected areas. It most often affects the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers or toes. Frostbite can permanently damage the body; severe cases can lead to amputation. The risk of frostbite is increased in people with reduced blood circulation and among those who are not dressed properly for extremely cold temperatures. Frostbite and hypothermia often go hand-in-hand and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. Taking preventive action is your best defense against extreme cold-weather conditions. By preparing your home and car in advance for winter emergencies, and by observing safety precautions during times of extremely cold weather, you can reduce the risk of weather-related problems.
Sources:
www.fda.gov,www.cdc.gov,www.weather.com, www.rightdiagnosis.com