By: Dr. Laura Hays, MD, FACEP
Winter can be magical with cozy nights, fluffy snow, and holiday festivities—but it’s also prime time for slips, chills, and a few avoidable ER visits.
As emergency physicians, we see our fair share of cold-weather mishaps every year. The good news? With a little preparation, you can keep yourself and your family safe from winter’s biggest hazards. Here’s what you need to know.
When the Cold Takes a Toll: Hypothermia
Spending too much time in the cold isn’t just uncomfortable—it can be downright dangerous. Hypothermia happens when your body loses heat faster than it can produce; trust us, it’s not just for extreme hikers or adventurers. Older folks are especially vulnerable to hypothermia, so be sure to check in with your elderly neighbors this time of year. A knock on the door or a quick call can make a big difference.
What to Watch For with Hypothermia:
- Shivering (your body’s first SOS)
- Confusion or fumbling hands
- Slurred speech or exhaustion
How to Avoid Hypothermia:
- Layer up! Think thermal underwear, insulated jackets, and waterproof boots. Be sure to don your hat, scarf and gloves…and don’t forget a pair of wool socks.
- Avoid staying in wet clothes—nothing zaps heat like moisture.
- Limit alcohol, caffeine and nicotine – these all accelerate heat loss.
If someone is shivering uncontrollably or seems confused, don’t hesitate to get them indoors, bundle them in warm, dry clothes, and seek medical care.
Frostbite: Not Just a Numb Feeling
Have you ever had that “I can’t feel my fingers” moment? Frostbite is what happens when that tingling turns serious. Fingers, toes, ears, and noses are especially vulnerable.
The Danger Signs of Frostbite:
- Numbness that doesn’t go away
- Skin that looks pale, hard, or waxy
- Blisters after warming up (a clear sign to see a doctor)
Stay Safe from Frostbite by:
- Covering all exposed skin with gloves, hats, and scarves.
- Avoiding tight shoes or socks that cut off circulation.
- Heading indoors when temps drop below freezing.
If your skin looks or feels off after being in the cold, don’t wait—frostbite is nothing to mess with.
Slip Sliding Away: Falls on Ice
Nothing ruins a winter walk faster than a crash landing. Icy driveways, sidewalks, and parking lots are like nature’s obstacle course, and they’re a leading cause of winter ER visits. From fractures and sprains to head injuries, slips and falls can lead to much more damage when ice and sleet are involved.
Prevent the Plunge:
- Invest in sturdy, non-slip boots.
- Sprinkle salt or sand on slick surfaces at home.
- Take it slow. No need to rush when every step could be a potential banana peel moment.
If you fall and hear a crack (or just can’t get up), it’s time to head to the ER.
The Silent Killer: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Winter is prime time for carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, thanks to heaters, fireplaces, and generators working overtime. Since CO is odorless and invisible, it’s one of the sneakiest risks out there.
Know the Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning:
- Dull headache or dizziness
- Nausea, weakness, or confusion
- Shortness of breath
Play It Safe:
- Install CO detectors (and test them regularly).
- Never use a generator, grill, or portable heater indoors.
- Have your furnace and fireplace checked annually.
If you suspect CO exposure, get everyone out of the house and call 911 immediately.
The Usual Suspects: Viruses
Winter is the peak season for respiratory illnesses like Flu, RSV, and COVID-19. While a sniffle might just be a cold, infants, older adults, and people with chronic medical conditions are at higher risk of serious illness.
When to Worry about Viruses:
- Struggling to breathe or persistent chest pain
- High fever that doesn’t improve
- Confusion or difficulty waking up
Stay Healthy from Viruses by:
- Keeping up with vaccinations.
- Washing your hands often (and no, a quick rinse doesn’t count).
- Staying home if you’re under the weather—no one needs your germs as a holiday gift.
Wrapping Up (See what I did there? 😁)
Winter emergencies are no joke, but with the right prep, you can spend more time enjoying the season and less time in the ER. Stay warm, stay safe, and check in with your neighbors. And if the unexpected happens, remember—we’re always here when you need us.
Dr. Laura Hays is an emergency physician with MEMA and co-founder of Lasting Impact Wellness Group, a health and well-being coaching and consulting company.
Check out her website at www.lastingimpactwellness.com and listen to her podcast, “Lasting Impact Wellness,” for more valuable insight and tips on optimal well-being.
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