Stay Healthy in This Cold Weather

Winter is a magical season—frosty mornings, warm fireside, and holiday gatherings. But while we enjoy all that this time of year has to offer, colder temperatures can take a toll on our health. At Eko Internal Medicine, we care deeply about your well-being, especially during these chilly months. That’s why we’ve put together this blog to help you stay healthy, safe, and comfortable all winter long.

From tips to avoiding seasonal illnesses to best practices for managing chronic conditions, we’re sharing everything you need to make this winter your healthiest yet.

How Cold Weather Impacts Your Health

Winter brings more than just snow and holiday cheer; it also brings unique health challenges that can affect people of all ages. Here’s how the chilly weather might impact you:

• Respiratory Health: Cold air can irritate your lungs and aggravate conditions like asthma or COPD. Dry indoor heating can further harm your respiratory system, leaving you more vulnerable to infections like colds or the flu.

• Heart Health: The winter season can elevate the risk of heart attacks, especially during physical exertion in cold weather (like shoveling snow). The cold forces your circulatory system to work harder to maintain body temperature.

• Immune System: With more people gathering indoors and viruses like the flu thriving in colder conditions, your immune system is constantly under threat.

• Dry Skin and Dehydration: Cold, dry air strips moisture from your skin, and exposure to indoor heaters can make dehydration more likely.

With these risks in mind, here are some practical steps to protect your health.

Top 5 Winter Health Tips from Dr. Eko

1. Strengthen Your Immune System

Boost your defenses with these easy tips:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins C and D. Think citrus fruits, leafy greens, and fortified cereals.

• Stay hydrated, even if you’re not sweating. Herbal teas are a comforting option.

• Prioritize sleep. Your body needs rest to combat illness and recover properly.

2. Get Vaccinated

Winter is prime flu and cold season—and with COVID-19 still in circulation, vaccinations are more important than ever. At Eko Internal Medicine, we offer:

• Annual flu shots

• COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters

• Pneumococcal vaccines for older adults or those with compromised immunity

Walk in today or call us to schedule your vaccination appointment.

3. Dress for the Weather

Layering is your best friend in cold weather:

• Wear breathable layers to wick away moisture and retain warmth.

• Don’t forget gloves, hats, and sturdy footwear with good grip to prevent slips or frostbite.

4. Don’t Skip Your Regular Appointments

If you’re managing chronic conditions like diabetes, asthma, or heart disease, it’s essential to stay proactive during winter. Regular check-ups help us monitor your health and adjust treatments if needed.

At Eko Internal Medicine, we can help with:

• Chronic illness management plans

• Urinalysis for underlying conditions

• Preventative care, including blood pressure and cholesterol checks

5. Take Care of Your Mental Health

Shorter days and colder weather can contribute to seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or worsen feelings of isolation. Counteract winter blues by:

• Spending time outdoors during daylight hours

• Staying active with home workouts or gentle stretching

• Maintaining social connections via phone or video calls

If you’re experiencing prolonged sadness or anxiety, our team is here to help connect you with mental health resources.