Tips for a Healthy Winter from Tzabar Medicine
Translated & summarized from Kikar HaShabbat by baba
Tzabar Medicine is providing advice for a healthy winter, highlighting risks like dehydration, falls, and burns. Dr. Karina Glick recommends vaccinations for flu, COVID-19, pneumonia, and shingles, alongside proper home ventilation and hydration. She also advises caution with heating devices and over-the-counter medications, emphasizing that simple daily habits and preparedness can prevent serious medical complications during the winter months.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Tzabar Medicine offers winter health advice, warning of dehydration, falls, and burns.
- Vaccinations against flu, COVID-19, pneumonia, and shingles are recommended.
- Proper home ventilation is crucial to reduce airborne virus transmission.
- Staying hydrated and avoiding direct contact with heating devices are key.
- Caution with over-the-counter cold medications is advised for those on prescriptions.
As winter approaches with the shift to standard time, Tzabar Medicine is offering guidance on navigating the season's health challenges. Dr. Karina Glick, Director of the Acute-Internal Department at Tzabar Medicine, notes that while winter brings common illnesses like flu and colds, it also presents risks such as dehydration, falls, burns from heating devices, and other medical complications. She emphasizes that proactive measures can significantly reduce these risks, particularly for the elderly and those with chronic conditions.
A key recommendation is winter vaccination, including flu and COVID-19 shots, to lower the risk of severe illness, complications, and hospitalization. Dr. Glick also advises checking for necessary additional vaccinations, such as pneumonia vaccines for adults over 65 and those in risk groups, and shingles vaccines for individuals over 50 or in risk groups, based on medical recommendations.
Proper home ventilation is crucial, even in cold weather. Opening windows, even partially, helps reduce airborne virus concentration and the risk of infection, especially when hosting guests or in shared indoor spaces. Dr. Glick also warns about heating devices, advising against prolonged close contact with heaters and radiators, and placing hot water bottles directly on the skin to prevent burns and skin damage. Uniform room heating, warm clothing, and layering are preferred methods.
Staying hydrated is essential, as the sensation of thirst can decrease in colder weather, yet the body still requires adequate fluid intake. Dehydration can lead to weakness and low blood pressure. Water, herbal teas, and soups are recommended, tailored to individual medical needs. Inside the home, fall prevention is vital, especially for seniors. Securing rugs, managing cords from portable heaters, and wearing non-slip slippers can mitigate risks. Maintaining clear pathways and good lighting also contributes to safety.
Even when staying indoors, light exercise and walking are encouraged to maintain mobility. Caution is advised with over-the-counter cold and flu medications, as some can affect blood pressure or interact with existing prescriptions. Consulting a doctor or pharmacist before use is recommended for those on regular medication or with chronic illnesses. Tzabar Medicine stresses that good health habits, early risk identification, and simple home preparations can help ensure a safe winter and reduce medical complications.