Many familiar ailments such as cold, flu and other respiratory illnesses are more common during winter. People are indoors more often, allowing viruses to pass more easily from one person to another. And the cold, dry air may weaken resistance.
But there are some lesser-known health risks that are also associated with winter. Here are a few common winter health problems along with some tips to stay healthy during the cold season.
1. Cold Sores
It starts with a telltale tingling on the edge of your mouth and develops into an angry, painful sore that makes you reluctant to face the world.
Cold sores are one of the more embarrassing winter ailments, but they’re also widespread. The Herpes Viruses Association says that around seven in 10 people have caught one of the viruses that cause them, though only one in three of them will show symptoms.
“Cold sores will spread to individuals that are in close contact to the affected area either through skin-to-skin touch or kissing,” says pharmacist Pareena Patel. “As the virus is often underlying, remaining dormant, it can even be spread from individuals who don’t show symptoms, as well as those that do.”
Ms Patel explains that many people believe that you can’t treat cold sores, but you actually can. “Whilst most cold sores will clear up by themselves in seven to 10 days, antiviral creams and treatments designed to treat cold sores (available over the counter) can be effective at speeding up the healing process.”
Read: How to boost your gut health and immune system this winter
2. Joint pain
Many people feel that arthritis-related pain increases when the temperature drops.
“Studies have found that cold and damp weather can irritate joint pain, particularly for those with arthritis,” explains Ms Patel. “While we don’t know for sure why this is, some scientists believe that changes in the weight of the air, known as barometric pressure, can cause expansion and contraction of tendons, muscles, bones and scar tissues.”
Of course, you can’t stop the wind and rain, but Ms Patel believes that you can manage your flare-ups with certain lifestyle interventions.
Read: Seven ways to alleviate joint pain
“Hot and cold therapy is one of the most effective forms of joint pain relief,” she notes. “The heat enhances circulation, whilst delivering nutrients to joints and muscles, which is good for getting your body more limber.”
For an inexpensive home therapy, you could try alternating between a hot and cold shower in the morning, or applying heat packs to the affected area, followed by an ice compress.
3. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
SAD is a type of depression that is related to changes in seasons, so symptoms appear at the same time every year, normally in autumn and winter.
During these colder, darker months, it’s not uncommon for some people to find they struggle for motivation and their mood is a bit flatter. While it’s more common in cold climate areas in the Northern Hemisphere, it can impact people living in Australia, too. SAD affects around one in 300 Australians each year.
The Royal College of Psychiatrists says the main symptoms of SAD that are similar to depression include low mood and lack of interest and enjoyment of life – while common symptoms of SAD that differ from most depressions are sleeping more and eating more.
Regular workouts can help to combat the symptoms of SAD as it helps to release endorphins, which are brain chemicals that bring on a happy post-exercise feeling.
If you do suffer from SAD, it’s advised that you exercise during the daylight hours, so you get the added benefit of the sun’s rays, which can boost your vitamin D levels.
4. Indigestion
The urge to grab some comfort food and curl up on the sofa can be overwhelming when it’s cold outside. If you’re not careful though, overindulging on comfort foods can bring on bloating, burping and indigestion that leaves you feeling sluggish and unwell.
“The food we eat over the winter period can also lead to many people experiencing indigestion and heartburn,” says Ms Patel. “These are often triggered by fatty foods, big meals and alcohol, and can be uncomfortable due to the stomach acid coming in contact with the lining of the digestive system.”
If you do find yourself with indigestion, try drinking some natural kefir – a fermented milk drink that’s similar to yogurt. This tangy treat is available to buy in most supermarkets and is a fast and effective way to improve gut health.
The probiotic kefir works to treat symptoms of digestive conditions by reducing elevated levels of inflammation in the brain and body.
Read: Why you should learn to love fermented food
5. Asthma
We often think of asthma symptoms as being at their peak during spring and summer months, however winter poses its own risks. Cold, dry air can trigger asthma attacks for people with asthma. Be sure to take any medication that’s been prescribed by your physician, and always carry your rescue inhaler if you have one. Consider exercising indoors and avoid vigorous physical activity outdoors on especially cold and windy days.
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If you’re concerned about your health this winter, it’s advisable to speak to your GP for advice and information, especially if you are 65 or older, or if you have a long-term health condition.
– With PA
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Disclaimer: This article contains general information about health issues and is not advice. For health advice, consult your medical practitioner.
