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How is your Health?  


Winter is a time of celebration but for some, it’s a down season that can lead to illnesses. While we’re on the way to spring, it’s still important to take note of the health hazards that occur during the coldest days of the year to be prepared.

Respiratory and flu-like illnesses

Various environmental conditions during winter are ideal for the faster spread of certain microbes that can cause the flu and colds. The usual symptoms are fever, chills head congestion, cough, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Most of these illnesses are viral in nature and do not require antibiotics. The best way to reduce the risk is washing your hands, getting a flu shot, and boosting your immune system through eating healthy and cutting down your sugar consumption, getting enough rest and exercise, and reducing stress.


Sore throat

This condition happens usually because of viral infections. There’s evidence that sudden changes in temperature can affect the throat. One quick remedy is to gargle with warm salt water, since it has anti-inflammatory properties and can have a soothing effect.


Dry body

Beijing’s cold, windy, and dry winter conditions are a bad combination for the body as the skin and the mucous linings of the nose can dry out often. Maintain enough moisture by ensuring proper humidity indoors or using moisturizers and lotions for the skin and nasal sprays for the nose.


Winter blues

Shorter days or the lack of sunlight are linked to changes in the mood, especially during winter. If you feel fatigued or in a bad mood, remember that those emotions are OK; don’t stress out the idea of being stressed out. Rather, motivate yourself to make lifestyle adjustments. If you feel everything is too much, slow down. Talk to a close friend, do something that’s out of your daily routine or anything that will lift up your mood, or try light therapy. Remember, you are not alone and there’s always someone close to your heart who is willing to listen.


Winter asthma and allergies

Winter can be challenging for people with asthma because of environmental factors like cold and polluted air, and even indoor allergens like dust, mold, and pet dander. Some good ways to reduce the risk of asthma attacks indoors are using high-efficiency particle absorber (HEPA) filters, minimizing exposure to allergens like pet dander and dust, and of course, boosting your immune system.


Arthritis

Joint pains occur often to the elderly during winter, and medical experts believe it’s because of the change in the barometric pressure in the environment. Staying active and dressing warmly (especially covering the hands, legs, and head where body heat tends to disperse quickly) will be the best ways to reduce the risk of arthritic pains.


Heart attacks

The incidence of heart attacks rises during winter when there are celebrations and social gatherings for the holidays. Make sure that your blood pressure and cholesterol levels are properly monitored and watch out for foods that would elevate these cardiovascular components. Exercise more often to maintain a healthy heart and keep your core body temperature up to help you manage sudden temperature shifts.


Cold weather injuries

Back injuries are common during winter, especially when people slip or fall on ice. Luckily in Beijing, snow or ice is rare, but there are still roads and pathways covered in thin ice. If you are up to traveling this time of the year, make sure you warm up your muscles and wear proper footwear to prevent slipping. On the other hand, strong cold winds happen once in a while and this can cause hypothermia. Make sure the infants, young kids, and the elderly wear warm and comfortable winter clothing.


Weight gain

We have the natural tendency to gobble up a lot during winter, plus there are a lot of social gatherings toward the Spring Festival. The result? Extra inches in the waist. Eat and drink in moderation. But that’s only one part. If you want to shed those extra pounds, consult an exercise professional for specific advice on the right workout routine, which will factor in your health history, heart endurance, and personal goals and commitment.