Effects of winter weather on the body

Brought to you by MERCY HEALTH

As winter weather hits full stride in the Mahoning Valley, so does the added risk of flu and flu-related viruses, as well as cold temperature-related injuries, according to a Mercy Health primary care physician.

“First and foremost, we see an increase of respiratory infections around this time of year,” said Dr. Jessica Handel, of Mercy Health Youngstown Primary Care. “Notably, as we are in the middle of influenza season, we also see another virus called respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, along with many of the common cold viruses.”

The cold temperatures outside may strengthen the spread of a virus, she said, and allow it to live longer.

“It’s not the cold temperatures that cause the flu, but exposure to the virus,” she said. “Cold weather makes us generally stay indoors, where we’re in closer proximity to others, which enables the viruses to spread more readily from person to person. “

Cold temperatures can also be irritating or damaging to the body.

“Being exposed to extremely cold temperatures can lead to things such as frostbite and tissue damage. Even brief periods in cold and changing temperatures can cause irritation of the tissues around our nose, sinuses and upper airways.”

Dr. Handel recommends following the basic tips to prevent any flu virus, such as washing hands and covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing.

“Avoid touching the nose, mouth and eye areas, as we often give ourselves a virus by touching these areas after touching an object with the virus on it,” she said.

The best protection against the influenza virus is a flu shot, Dr. Handel added.

“It’s not too late in the season to get one,” she said.

When debating whether to call off from work or school, Dr. Handel says it can be a difficult decision.

“In general, if a person has an active fever, that might be a good reason to stay home until they’re evaluated,” Dr. Handel said.

For those experiencing serious symptoms, such as high fever, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing and severe pain, especially in the chest, Dr. Handel recommends seeking treatment immediately.

“Viruses that start off as a cold or influenza can turn into worsening complications, such as pneumonia or worsening infections.”

Otherwise, people can visit their primary-care physician for further guidance on their symptoms.

In addition to the risk of the common cold and other viruses, winter weather has another major effect on the body – injuries from snow and ice.

“We see a lot of injuries from slips on ice, along with injuries that can come from the exertion and cold temperatures of shoveling snow,” Dr. Handel said. “It’s not uncommon to hear about people who’ve had heart attacks while shoveling snow.”

Dr. Handel offered guidance on how to best deal with the aftermath of winter weather.

“The best advice is to salt sidewalks, try to avoid going out in inclement weather and be extra cautious by taking small steps while walking.”

For more information on primary care services at Mercy Health visit mercy.com