Hyderabad:As temperatures continue to drop sharply across the state and cold wave conditions persist, doctors have advised citizens, especially the elderly and children, to take precautions and protect themselves from the health effects of cold weather.
Flu like influenza and swine flu are likely to spread faster in winter. Any virus that spreads through airborne droplets is more likely to infect people. “The natural defense mechanism of our nose decreases by 50-70 percent with every drop at 4 degrees Celsius. Hence, the chance of infection increases. It is important to wear a plain surgical mask which protects us. Keep us warm and protect us from viruses,” said Dr TNJ Rajesh, Consultant Internal Medicine, Star Hospital. said
“It’s getting colder, people are shivering. It’s 6 p.m., there’s a cold wind. At this time, there’s a risk of infection with influenza, the flu virus, and the rhinovirus. These viruses are affecting people. Asthma, COPD, and pneumonia, and they’re healthy. are also attacking individuals, it is a particularly difficult time for women, the elderly and children,” said Dr H Guru Prasad, Associate Clinical Director, Internal Medicine, CARE Hospital.
Doctors recommend that citizens get an annual flu vaccine. “Every year, new vaccines come out with different types. So, getting those vaccines annually reduces the risk of flu,” said Dr Rajesh.
Dr Rajesh said cold weather can trigger acute asthma episodes in asthmatics. If the temperature drops as low as 5 degrees Celsius, the elderly may experience a slower heart rate. If there are any blocks, it can also lead to heart failure. Cold weather reduces blood circulation to the periphery of our body: hands, feet and ears. This leads to a greater chance of infection if not frostbite. Therefore, it is necessary to keep these parts warm.
He said that during this season, walking in the afternoon should be replaced by walking especially from 11 am to 2 pm, as it helps the body to get vitamin D, which is required by the body.
“The change of weather also causes the skin to become pale and dry, chapped lips, blue face, cracked soles of the feet, and itching of the body due to low humidity in this season. During this period, bath for 5 to 10 minutes, if the hands and feet are cracked, Soak in warm bath water and wipe with a clean, dry cloth and drink plenty of water to loosen teeth,” Dr. Guru suggested Prasad.
“People with diabetes, heart and lung problems should be vaccinated first. Staying in cold air for a long time can cause respiratory diseases. People with respiratory problems should not go outside in winter. Asthma patients should use inhalers. If you have a cold, stay at home for two to three days if you ignore the problems like cold, flu, etc. Rest and drink plenty of water.People suffering from asthma and pneumonia may delay treatment if they do not take their medicine on time Water enters the lungs, said Dr. Prasad.
“Wear layers of clothing to trap heat. If you must go outside, be sure to wear a warm hat, scarf, gloves, and insulated shoes. When outside, cover your nose and mouth with a scarf or mask to provide warmth and moisture. Before the air enters the lungs,” Dr. Praveen Kulkarni, Senior Consultant of Internal Medicine at KIMS Hospital said.
“Cold air can narrow or tighten the airways, which can cause shortness of breath, wheezing and shortness of breath in people with underlying respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD, whose airways are already more sensitive and inflamed. Cold air can dry out the airways, causing the cold to irritate blood vessels and increase mucus production, which can increase blood pressure and cause stress on the heart, causing a sore throat, sinusitis, Nasal congestion and irritation, increased mucus production, and dryness of the nose and throat can occur,” explained Dr Kulkarni.