Doctors urge awareness as Oklahoma enters into freezing temperatures

Local doctors are urging Oklahomans, especially those with chronic health conditions, to stay weather-aware as the state heads into a cold snap.

A wintery blast could hurt the most vulnerable including the elderly and those with conditions such as asthma, COPD, diabetes, and arthritis.

Respiratory

Norman Regional pulmonologist Brian Whitson, MD, FCCP, said cold weather can be harmful to those with respiratory illnesses. The cold air can cause spasms in the passages of the lungs (bronchial passages) making it more difficult to breathe. People with asthma, COPD or other lung diseases should take extra caution during the extreme cold weather.

Dr. Whitson recommends his patients have an extra supply of their inhaler regimen or have an emergency generator for any medical equipment such as a CPAP machine or oxygen concentrator.

The doctor also says wearing a ski mask or scarf wrapped around your nose and mouth can help retain heat and moisture from your breath. Breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth helps convert cold winter air to warmer, moist air for your lungs.

Cardiovascular Disease

Cold temperatures can also narrow blood vessels, increasing blood pressure. This can then trigger heart attacks or strokes. Extreme cold also may cause blood to thicken and become more prone to clotting.

It’s important for those with heart conditions to stay warm and protected during cold temperatures. Consider setting your home’s heat to at least 68°F, as even mildly cool homes can cause issues for older adults.

Joint Pain

“The cold and seasonal changes in atmospheric pressure can result in swelling, especially in enclosed spaces like our joints,” said Brian Clowers, MD, an orthopedic surgeon with Ortho Central.

Dr. Clowers recommends patients use compression, warmth and gentle stretching to keep joints pain-free during colder months. Mobility is important in keeping joints limber and pain-free. He also said patients can take anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen, to alleviate pain, but to make sure they have no allergies or other reactions to those medications.

Dr. Clowers specializes in the foot and ankle including joint replacement surgeries. Interestingly, he said some of his patients report their metal joint implants feel cold during the winter, especially if the implant is close to the skin.

Dr. Clowers also recommends patients to not rush during winter weather.

“My number one tip is to take extra time, even if it’s not icy. There is a higher risk for falls in the winter, so really allow yourself ample time to travel,” Dr. Clowers said.

If you do take a tumble, Ortho Central has an orthopedic urgent care called Ortho Stat that is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. This clinic offers seamless care for sprains, strains, and other orthopedic injuries.

The one thing all doctors recommend during cold weather – staying hydrated. Water will help keep the body moist and running efficiently.

Other Conditions Exacerbated by the Cold

People with the following conditions should be weather aware and take extra care during the cold:

• Autoimmune diseases such as lupus or multiple sclerosis (MS).
• Diabetes as cold weather can stress the body and reduce insulin production.
• Mental health can suffer especially when confined indoors.
• Skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.