Doctors suggest winter-care measures

As winter sets in, a season marked by low temperatures, reduced humidity, and increased indoor crowding, a proactive and preventive approach to health care becomes especially important. Dr Subhayan Bhattacharya from Techno India DAMA Hospital brings into light the major challenges of winter Seasons and how to prevent from getting affected from cold induced health hazards.

Types of health issues

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Cold weather predisposes individuals to a range of health issues, including respiratory tract infections, exacerbations of chronic cardiopulmonary diseases, musculoskeletal discomfort, and skin disorders.

During winter, viral infections such as influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, and other upper respiratory tract infections show a clear seasonal rise, making vaccination a cornerstone of preventive care. Annual influenza vaccination should be strongly encouraged, particularly among the elderly, pregnant women, individuals with chronic illnesses, and health-care workers. General infection-prevention strategies, including regular hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette, and avoiding crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, remain highly effective and should be consistently reinforced.

Protein-rich diets for boosting immunity

Adequate nutrition plays a central role in maintaining immunity during winter months. A balanced diet rich in proteins, seasonal fruits, vegetables, and micronutrients such as vitamins A, C, D, zinc, and iron supports optimal immune function. Vitamin D deficiency is particularly common in winter due to reduced sunlight exposure, and supplementation may be considered in high-risk populations after appropriate assessment. Maintaining adequate hydration is equally important, as the sensation of thirst often diminishes in cold weather, predisposing individuals to dehydration, constipation, and urinary tract infections. Warm fluids such as soups and herbal teas can help maintain hydration while providing symptomatic comfort.

Patients with heart ailments are more vulnerable

Cold exposure can aggravate cardiovascular conditions by causing peripheral vasoconstriction, increased blood pressure, and higher cardiac workload. Patients with hypertension, ischemic heart disease, or heart failure should be advised to adhere strictly to medications, monitor blood pressure regularly, and avoid sudden exposure to extreme cold. Patients with chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are prone to winter exacerbations. They should be counselled on strict adherence to inhaled therapies, correct inhaler techniques, avoidance of known triggers, and early medical consultation at the onset of worsening symptoms.

Dermatological solution for a glowing skin

Skin care deserves special attention during winter, as low humidity leads to xerosis, eczema flares, and pruritus. Regular use of emollients, avoidance of excessively hot showers, and use of mild soaps can significantly reduce skin-related morbidity. Musculoskeletal problems, including joint stiffness and myalgia, are also more common in cold weather; maintaining regular physical activity, gentle stretching, and adequate warmth can help prevent discomfort and functional decline.

Mental-physical fitness contributes for a better living

Mental health and lifestyle factors should not be overlooked during winter. Reduced daylight hours and limited outdoor activity may contribute to low mood, sleep disturbances, and reduced physical fitness. Adequate rest, smoking cessation, and moderation of alcohol intake further strengthen overall health and immune resilience.

Keep eyes protected during winter

Dr Soham Basak, consultant, cornea department, Disha Eye Hospitals says most tend to take extra care of the eyes during summer months, completely ignoring the winters. It is extremely important for you to be aware that winters leave our eyes more vulnerable than the summers. During winters, we tend to spend more time outdoors, exposing our eyes to more problems. Children and outdoor workers are at a greater risk as they tend to spend longer hours outdoors.

Low humidity and exposure to cold winds may aggravate dry eye symptoms. So, it is better to use sunglasses or goggles outdoors. Also, the smog in polluted cities can cause eye irritation. Wash your eyes after any outdoor visit and apply lubricating eye drops for comfort.

There is a rise of some pollen and allergens in the air during autumn-winter and winter-spring transition. This leads to rise in allergy symptoms like watering, itching and redness of eyes. Children and young adults are especially affected. Lubricant eye drops and anti-allergy eye drops can be applied as required.