As summer and fall become distant memories, the change in weather associated with the winter season can signal the onset of numerous health issues. This can include body aches from cold weather, an increase in cold and flu outbreaks, dry skin, and a lack of exercise.

The following tips help you overcome these winter health problems.

Cold and Flu

Instances of colds and the flu increase both in frequency and duration as early as September. Senior citizens and individuals who suffer from chronic respiratory disease are often encouraged to get yearly immunizations for the flu and a pneumonia vaccine may be prescribed. While vaccines cannot guarantee you won’t contract the flu, they do tend to significantly reduce its severity.

Asthma and Allergy

Asthma and allergy sufferers often experience greater discomfort during the winter months. First, many find that the colder temperatures irritate and restrict their airways resulting in an increased number of episodes. Additionally, colder temperatures tend to lead to an increase in the amount of time we spend indoors where dust and pollen thrive. Things like vacuuming and dusting more often can help reduce the number of breathing difficulties.

Cold Weather and Joint Pains

Almost all sufferers of arthritis experience inflammation of the joints in the body during this time of year. It seems that the cold weather worsens the arthritis symptoms of joints including the knee, fingers, and spine. Performing stretching exercises and keeping the affected area warm can help lessen these winter aches and pains. Be sure to take care of your body; try soaking in a warm bath with Epson salt weekly to ease the pain.

Dry Skin and Sluggishness

Physical discomfort common in winter can also include milder complaints from extremely dry skin and chapped lips, to simply feeling a bit more sluggish. Cold weather takes a physical toll on the body in a variety of ways, but there a few simple things you can do to limit the occurrence of some of these symptoms.

Colder weather leads to an increase in the use of space and central heaters, both of which decrease the amount of moisture in the air; make sure you replace the lost humidity by employing a humidifier to regulate the atmospheric moisture levels. Additionally, drink lots of water to keep your body hydrated. Find a good moisturizer and lip balm and use them frequently.

Weight Gain

Another health concern that seems to increase during the winter is weight gain. Because of the lower outdoor temperatures, we tend to be less active than we are during other seasons of the year. Couple that with the “big meal” holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas and it’s easy to understand why elastic waistbands are among the preferred winter attire.

Proper exercise and weight management will greatly reduce the occurrence of body aches and pains during the colder months. Make sure to get in motion. Find a nearby indoor mall and do some walking, or join a gym, or invest in some home equipment such as dumbbells and resistance bands and make your own workout routine.

“Regular exercise will ease stiffness, strengthen muscles, improve circulation, help to control weight – putting less strain on joints, help maintain bone density, improve sleep and boost mood. All of which help to prevent pain.”

Via Muscle Clinic

The Winter Blues

Winter health issues are not all physical in nature, the season appears to have a profound effect on our mental health as well. A recent study has shown that approximately one-fifth of the American population suffers from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). SAD symptoms range from increased irritability to depression and even suicidal thoughts. Milder cases are sometimes referred to as “the winter blues.” Researchers think it may be linked to the decreased number of hours of sunlight.

Believe it or not, your mood is also affected by the colors you wear. Make sure to wear vibrant and confident colors during the winter months, when you look good, you feel good as well.

A good way to combat SAD is to do something that makes you glad. Get up and exercise, go for a walk and get some sun. If you have the time and the cash, take a vacation to your favorite tropical island; it’s just what the doctor ordered!

Being aware and cognizant is the first step to changing our mindset about the winter months. With these tips you are on your way to alleviating aches and pains and thriving this season.