WINTER IS COMING. TAKE COVER!

Thursday, 14 de November de 2019 - 11:09

Exposure to intense cold can have negative consequences on our body. At this time of year, our body changes with the cold and it becomes easier for diseases like the flu or other respiratory infections to appear.

 

Who should have special attention?

Some people are more sensitive than others and therefore more vulnerable to the effects of intense cold:

  • Children in the early years because they lose body heat faster than adults and do not produce enough heat to compensate for losses;
  • Persons aged 65 or over or with reduced mobility;
  • People with chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, vascular, rheumatic, mental, respiratory failure (including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).

 

Anyone can have a cold or the flu. So, it is better to prevent and have a winter kit always at hand!

 

What should your winter kit contain:

  1. Thermometer
  2. Antipyretic - It is important to have medication to lower fever.
  3. Anti-flu - It may be necessary to "attack" the first symptoms of an unwanted flu! But be aware of the active substances, they may not be right for you.
  4. Nasal Decongestant - Here there are various options! You can choose from a saline solution to something stronger, or even a spray or drops.
  5. Painkiller - Headaches are a typical symptom, especially at this time of year!
  6. Throat lozenges - There are several options when it comes to treating sore throats, not only the flavour but also the active substances.
  7. Moisturiser and sunscreen - It is important to moisturise well the whole body, especially the hands, feet, face and lips. And don't forget the sunscreen, you should use it all year long!

 

Recommendations to prepare for the cold

  1. Keep the house warm!

Our house must also be prepared to receive winter. To keep the house warm, make sure the windows and doors are well insulated. Despite the cold, the house should also be ventilated to prevent gas accumulation.

  1. Take care and hydrate yourself!

Although the desire is for a good hot water bath, it removes the natural protective layer of the skin, so we should opt for a tepid water bath.

  1. Wrap up well!

This is the time to resort to warm clothing! On cold days we should protect our hands, feet and head well and avoid tight clothes that make blood circulation difficult. Tip: Wear Multiple Layers of Clothing

  1. Have a good diet!

In addition to shortening the interval between meals, the diet should be rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to prevent the onset of infections. One thing that always tastes good on cold days and is advisable is soups and hot drinks such as milk and tea; alcoholic beverages should be avoided.

  1. Practice exercise, but carefully!

The practice of exercise should be routine! It is essential to drink water not to dehydrate, as well as to stay dry, that is, to avoid cooling down while dressed in clothes full of perspiration.

  1. Get vaccinated!

Vaccination is the main prevention measure for influenza as it helps to protect the most defenseless people and should be done annually. This vaccine is available at health centers free of charge for some at-risk groups. Talk to your doctor and be safe!

 

This winter know what you can do to protect yourself!

Count on the support of your Holon pharmacist.

 

This is the advice of our Pharmacist, Ana Sofia Macedo.