Winter Health Tips: Doctors Advise on Staying Healthy During Colder Months
Translated & summarized from Behadrei Haredim by baba
Dr. Karina Glick of Tzabar Medicine advises on staying healthy during winter, highlighting the risks of seasonal illnesses, dehydration, falls, and burns. She recommends vaccinations, proper home ventilation, safe use of heating devices, and adequate hydration. Dr. Glick also stresses fall prevention, staying active, and consulting healthcare professionals before using cold medications, especially for those with chronic conditions.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Winter brings risks of illness, dehydration, falls, and burns, according to Tzabar Medicine.
- Vaccinations against flu, COVID-19, pneumonia, and shingles are recommended.
- Proper home ventilation and safe use of heating devices are crucial.
- Maintaining hydration and preventing falls are key for overall health.
- Consulting doctors before using cold medications is advised for at-risk individuals.
As winter approaches and people spend more time indoors, Israeli healthcare professionals are emphasizing preventative measures to avoid seasonal illnesses and other winter-related risks. Dr. Karina Glick, Director of the Acute-Internal Department at Tzabar Medicine, notes that while common colds and flu are prevalent, other dangers like dehydration, falls, burns from heating devices, and complications for those with chronic conditions also increase.
Dr. Glick stresses the importance of vaccinations, including flu and COVID-19 shots, to reduce severe illness and hospitalizations. She also recommends considering vaccinations against pneumonia for individuals over 65 or in at-risk groups, and shingles for those over 50 or at risk, advising consultation with a doctor.
Proper ventilation is crucial, even in cold weather, to reduce virus concentration indoors. Dr. Glick also warns about burns from direct contact with heating devices and recommends uniform room heating, warm clothing, and layering instead. Staying hydrated is essential, as thirst sensation can decrease in winter, potentially leading to weakness and dehydration. Water, herbal teas, and soups are recommended.
Preventing falls, especially among the elderly, is another key concern. Loose rugs, heater cords, and slippery socks can cause injuries. Maintaining clear pathways, good lighting, and wearing stable slippers can mitigate these risks. Staying physically active with light exercises suitable for one's health condition is also advised.
Finally, Dr. Glick cautions about over-the-counter cold medications, which can interact with existing prescriptions or affect blood pressure. Individuals with chronic conditions or those on regular medication should consult a doctor or pharmacist before use. Tzabar Medicine emphasizes that simple daily habits, early risk identification, and attention to elderly family members can significantly improve winter health and reduce medical complications.