SOOTHE SEASONAL FLARE-UPS

Don’t let chronic illness get the better of you when the chill sets in

If you’re one of the 40 per cent of Aussies aged 45 and older living with two or more chronic diseases, the cold months can be difficult. “Often it’s more about the change in seasons rather than the temperature,” says Dr Ronald Mccoy, education strategy senior adviser at the Sydney-based Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. The good news is you can get through winter relatively unscathed with a few easy tweaks.

KEEP COSY

Depending on your health conditions, it may be especially important to stay warm when out and about. Some types of asthma are worsened by inhaling cold air or being exposed to damp and mould. Likewise, if you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, a fall in atmospheric pressure – which often happens before bad weather sets in – can make joints flare up. “If you stay warm, the cold air won’t have as much of an effect on symptoms,” says Dr Mccoy. Wear the right clothes to keep your torso and extremities snug.

STAY SUPPLE

Maintaining some form of gentle movement is essential for keeping your body limber. Regular stretching is a great way to improve flexibility and loosen stiff joints caused by chilly weather. To improve the range of motion in ankle, knee and hip joints, try this knee exercise: sitting on a chair, loop a towel under your foot, then gently pull the towel upwards with both hands, raising your foot

10cm off the floor. Hold for five to 10 seconds, then release. Repeat five times for each leg. While seated, make small circles with ankles to boost circulation.

NURTURE YOURSELF

If you’re prone to extreme dryness, or have a skin condition such as eczema or psoriasis, a sudden temperature change can trigger a breakout, leaving you flaky and itchy. Low humidity and heated environments can exacerbate other conditions, such as Sjogren’s syndrome, which causes dry eyes and mouth. “You can partially control symptoms by maintaining a comfortable room temperature and keeping skin well hydrated at all times,” says Dr Mccoy. Also limit showers to 10 minutes, avoid harsh soaps and moisturise after bathing.

MAKE HYGIENE A TOP PRIORITY

Always wash your hands after using the toilet, before preparing food and before eating. “Hand washing is the single most effective way to prevent catching colds and flus,” says Dr Mccoy. Secondly, get a flu shot. “It’s especially good for older people,” he says. It’s also free for anyone over 65 and many companies provide flu shots to employees.

REVIEW YOUR MEDICATIONS

Many prescription medications, including antidepressants, antihistamines and cholesterollowering drugs, are known to dry out the skin and mouth. If you’re experiencing excessive dryness, ask your doctor about a change in dosage or type. However, Dr Mccoy advises caution. “It might be unrelated, so always check with your doctor before stopping or decreasing any type of medication,” he says. Also, you may be able to control the dryness with ointments, eye drops and mouthwashes instead.