If you are living in an area where the winter temperatures can get too cold, you’ve probably wondered what illnesses you can catch. The fact is that being too cold can lead to several health problems, including some that are life-threatening. It’s vital to take precautions whenever possible, however.
If you’re constantly outdoors, the cold can cause a heart attack. This can affect anyone, especially those with a weakened heart. People who are susceptible to heart attack should stay indoors or find a way to stay warm. If you’re shoveling snow, consider hiring a snow shoveler so you don’t put yourself at risk. Heavy snow can be particularly hard on the heart and may result in an attack.
Despite being a non-life-threatening condition, cold temperatures can cause skin to dry out. Dry skin is an obvious symptom of cold, dry environments and itching and cracking can occur. Those with exposed skin should seek medical attention right away to prevent further complications. Chilblains typically clear up within one to three weeks, but recur with the next cold snap. So, take precautions! Stay toasty with an effective boiler in your home. For Tewkesbury Boilers, go to www.combi-man.com/boiler-finance/boiler-finance-tewkesbury/
People who spend a lot of time outdoors or in cold temperatures can become hypothermic. This is a condition in which the body produces less heat than it can replace. It affects the brain, making it difficult to think clearly and move well. People suffering from hypothermia may have no idea they’re experiencing symptoms. They may become confused and sleepy and may even stop breathing. Eventually, hypothermia can lead to death if they’re not treated.
Cold temperatures can also lead to other problems. Exposure to these conditions can lead to heart attacks, blood pressure increases, and pneumonia, to name a few. Not only can cold temperatures keep us from working, but exposure to these conditions can make us less social, cause stress, and even make you feel unwell. Cold-related illnesses can cause depression and social isolation, and may be especially dangerous to people with existing health problems.
Being too cold does not necessarily make you unwell. However, the cold weather can make you more vulnerable to certain viruses. Because cold temperatures weaken the immune system, you may be at risk for a cold or flu. Cold temperatures can also make the white blood cells in your body less effective. Cold temperatures may lead to increased risks of illnesses like the flu, cold, and pneumonia.
