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Press Release
For immediate release January 6, 2010
Contact: John T. Althardt, (317) 221-2316
Special Precautions Should be Taken When Outside in Extreme Cold Conditions
Doctors encourage the public to be prepared for winter blast.
Indianapolis, January 6, 2010 -- Weather forecasters are predicting cold winter air along with snow will soon blanket central Indiana bringing with it several dangerous health concerns.
Whether it is waiting at a bus stop or shoveling snow from the driveway (see below sidebar), being out in the cold can result in a variety of health-related injuries and illnesses. Some health conditions associated with the cold include hypothermia, dehydration, trench and immersion foot and frostbite. In addition, ice and snow causes thousands of injuries and fatalities each year on American roads.
"There are several precautions people should take when outside in extreme cold conditions for extended periods. The first is to dress appropriately by wearing several layers of clothing," said Dr. Rawle A. Seupaul, an emergency medicine physician at Wishard Health Services and associate professor at the IU School of Medicine. "It is also important to keep moving. This will help increase your circulation and will make you feel warmer and more comfortable."
Dr. Seupaul also stressed it is important to eat and drink hot meals and hot liquids, which help to provide warmth and energy on the coldest days. He also said the elderly and young are especially susceptible to cold-related illnesses as well as those with cancer, HIV, heart disease and diabetes.
Other tips doctors suggest following when out in extreme cold conditions include:
- Always wearing a hat and/or scarf
- Avoiding alcohol consumption
- Wearing insulated gloves and socks to prevent frostbite injuries to fingers and toes
- Drinking warm liquids like tea and hot chocolate. Sugar contained in these beverages helps the body to generate additional heat (caffeine may seem beneficial, but should be generally avoided, as it may contribute to heat loss)
Winter's chill can also cause problems on roads. Ice and snow-covered roads are a major source of accidents resulting in severe injury and death. According to the National Weather Service, winter weather often catches people unprepared. Researchers have found that 70 percent of the fatalities related to ice and snow occur in automobiles, and about 25 percent of all winter-related fatalities are people who are caught off guard.
"As a Level I trauma center we see a variety of injuries in the winter months that could be avoided or limited by following some simple precautions," said Dr. Seupaul. "The most important advice is to just slow down, stay warm and take it easy."
Wishard Health Services has a long history of providing central Indiana with state-of-the-art emergency services. Wishard operates the single busiest emergency department in the state of Indiana, caring for over 100,000 patient visits in 2009 alone. Several services are offered within the Wishard Emergency Department, including the IU/Wishard Level I Trauma Center, a hazardous materials program, a Psychiatric Emergency Room, an Urgent Visit Center and the Center of Hope for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.
Snow Shoveling Safety Tips provided by Wishard Health Services
- People over 50 years of age and those who have health conditions should be especially careful.
- Dress warmly and if your clothes become wet or damp from the snow come inside and dry off immediately. Remember that extremities, such as the nose, ears, hands and feet need extra attention in cold weather. Always wear a hat, scarf and gloves and plenty of layers.
- Take your time... Shoveling can raise your heart rate and blood pressure very quickly. Often times people shovel their driveway very quickly without resting or staying hydrated.
- Don't over do it. Picking up a large amount of snow can cause back strains and muscle problems.
- Push the snow as you shovel like a plow. It's easier on your back than lifting the snow out of the way.
- Just like lifting a heavy box, lift with your legs bent and not with your back. Always keep your back straight.
- Take lots of breaks and drink hot fluids
- Do not shovel after eating or while smoking.
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