Lesser-known winter health problems

Cold weather can make some health problems worse and even lead to serious complications

It’s known as the most wonderful time of the year, but winter can be the very worst for your health. Colder weather can lead to some seasonal health issues that we all need to watch out for, especially if we want to avoid feeling unwell on Christmas Day.

While many of us tend to focus on common ailments such as cold, viruses and flu, there are lesser-known health risks that are associated with winter. We asked health experts to tell us more…

1. COLD SORES

It starts with a tell-tale tingling on the edge of your mouth and develops into an angry, painful sore that makes you reluctant to switch on your camera during Zoom calls.

Cold sores are one of the more embarrassing winter ailments, but they’re also widespread. The Herpes Viruses Association says that around seven in ten people have caught one of the viruses that cause them, though only one in three of them will show symptoms.

2. JOINT PAIN

Many people feel that arthritis-related pain increases when the temperature drops, making the Christmas period agony.

“Studies have found that cold and damp weather can irritate joint pain, particularly for those with arthritis. “

While we don’t know for sure why this is, some scientists believe that changes in the weight of the air, known as barometric pressure, can cause expansion and contraction of tendons, muscles, bones and scar tissues.”

For an inexpensive home therapy, you could try alternating between a hot and cold shower in the morning, or applying heat packs to the affected area, followed by an ice compress.

3. SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER (SAD)

SAD is a type of depression that is related to changes in seasons, so symptoms appear at the same time every year, normally in autumn and winter. According to Bupa, it affects around three in 100 people in the UK, and women are around four times more likely to have SAD than men.

The Royal College of Psychiatrists says the main symptoms of SAD that are similar to depression include low mood and lack of interest and enjoyment of life – while common symptoms of

SAD that differ from most depressions are sleeping more and eating more.

4. INDIGESTION

Between the mince pies, turkey dinners and Christmas chocolates, overindulgence during the festive period is pretty common. If you’re not careful though, it can bring on uncomfortable bloating, burping and indigestion that leaves you feeling sluggish and unwell.

5. CHRISTMAS ASTHMA

We often think of asthma symptoms as being at their peak during spring and summer months, however Christmas poses its own risks.

“Real Christmas trees often harbour mould and the warmth from inside your home can cause mould spores to multiply, which increases the risk of an asthma attack.”

“To reduce the risk of your Christmas tree spoiling your December, keep real trees in the coolest area of your house and hose them down before bringing them inside.

“If you’re opting for an artificial tree this year, make sure to dust it thoroughly when you bring it down from the loft.”

If you’re concerned about your health this winter, it’s advisable to speak to your GP for advice and information, especially if you are 65 or older, or if you have a longterm health condition.