Friday, April 3, 2020 – The Cold Never Bothered Me Anyway

In the morning when I walk it is 64 degrees — very pleasant, perfect walking weather. However, in the afternoon, the temperature drops almost 20 degrees. I bundle up in a padded jacket, knitted wool hat and gloves. Granted, it is not freezing. But it’s still too cold to be outside for an hour and a half without a coat or heavy sweater. In cold weather, I envy those whose internal temperature seems to always be set to warm. These are the people you see ice skating in tank tops and shorts or snow skiing in a swimsuit. My internal thermostat does not operate that way. One time I had a job in an office where my desk was directly below a vent. I wore thermal underwear year-round.

According to the Harvard Medical School Health Letter, cold weather can affect the body in different ways:

Heart

Cold weather acts as a vasoconstrictor — which means it narrows blood vessels, raising the risk of heart attack. The solution is to dress warmly when going out, with a hat, gloves, and a warm coat. Don't do any strenuous activity outdoors that may stress your heart.

Balance

Icy sidewalks can make falling easier, putting you at risk for fractures. The solution is to avoid slippery surfaces if possible. Wear shoes or boots with heavily textured soles that can grip surfaces. Use handrails, even if you feel you don't need them.

Skin

Dry winter air can suck the moisture from your skin. The solution is to use a moisturizer with an oil base to block evaporation. Shower in lukewarm — not hot — water. Use a humidifier to replenish moisture to the skin's top layer.

Body Temperature

Older adults are at risk for hypothermia, in which the body's internal temperature falls too low. According to Dr. Suzanne Salamon, an instructor at Harvard Medical School, "Even prolonged exposure to mild cold can cause it."

The solution is to bundle up if you're going outside and be aware of signs that your body isn't handling the cold well — such as stiffness in the neck, arms, and legs. Call 911 if you suspect you or someone you know is suffering from hypothermia. 

Immune System

During winter months, people spend more time inside and in close contact with each other, such as in stores, malls, and restaurants. This means that the flu, coughs and colds are more easily spread. The solution is to get a flu shot, wash your hands frequently with soap and water or hand sanitizer, and cough and sneeze into the crook of your elbow, not your hands.

The same is true of Covid-19. When people spend more time in close contact with each other, it affects their immune systems. The solution is to wash your hands frequently with soap and water or hand sanitizer. Therefore, if we are NOT in close contact (at least six feet apart) and wash our hands frequently with soap and water or hand sanitizer, it is less likely to affect our immune systems. We can help flatten the curve together.