Winter is associated with the holidays and cheer, but it’s also that dreaded time of the year when ailments lurk at every corner. From winter allergies to winter depression, and circulatory disorders to colds, the list of winter ailments is endless, with coughs, flu, sinusitis, arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, chilblains and hypothermia, being among the most common and troublesome conditions of the season. The idea is not to bog you down with a list of ailments, but to make you more aware about these and help you on with the right winter care. Armed with the knowledge and tips, you are sure to know more about winter health, the right winter food and winter herbs to help you remain healthy.
SAD: Shorter winter days can induce the Seasonal Affective disorder. Symptoms include depression and lethargy. This happens because of shortened days, grey weather, cold temperatures and lack of sunshine. Tanning beds and better lighting indoors can be solutions to cope with SAD.
Breathing Difficulty: Since the air molecules in winter become thinner, this leads to breathing problems like asthma. The way to take care of yourself is by wearing layers of warm clothing and scarves – this will warm the air molecules before they enter your body.
Colds: Most of us have suffered from the common cold. The symptoms include itchy eyes, runny nose and sneezing. Generally, colds last for a week, and to prevent yourself from feeling that miserable you can do steam inhalations, gargle with saline water, drink hot spiced tea, and tea made with an extract of Basil, peppercorn and ginger. You can consult a doctor for conventional medicines and an herbal practitioner for the right winter herbs.
Sore Throat: At most times, colds are accompanied with sore throats. The symptoms include an itchy, scratchy feeling in the throat, trouble swallowing, sneezing, and runny nose. For this, try herbal teas, gargling and medicines recommended by your physician. Rest and a lot of sleep will help you heal better.
Coughs: Dry cough or a cough that throws up sputum is common during winters. Coughs are caused because of problems in the lungs, or the respiratory passages. While there are plenty of reliable cough syrups and throat drops to cease coughing, almost all have side effects. Instead opt for natural remedies and herbal remedies like honey and ginger or brandy.
Sinusitis: This is caused when the sinuses are inflamed. Symptoms include a blocked-up feeling, pain in the forehead or face, fever and even giddiness. This can be cured with rest and medicines. You must also take hot steams with warm water mixed with eucalyptus oil.
Influenza: the flu strikes ever so often during winters. The symptoms include fever, headache, sneezing, runny nose and eyes, cough and an overall miserable feeling. Apart from taking medicines prescribed by a doctor, you must drink hot beverages, teas flavored with medicinal herbs like Basil and ginger, and get adequate rest.
Others: Winters can also trigger of arthritis attacks, make rheumatoid arthritis worse, cause chilblains, frostbite, circulatory problems, and in worst case scenarios, even hypothermia. Most of these can be prevented by staying active and warm by wearing layers of warm clothing and keeping your home heated.
