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It can be possible to stay healthy this winter despite flu season and COVID-19 still in our communities. Avoiding contagious illnesses is the best way to avoid getting sick, and certain daily habits can help you feel good all season. If you are feeling under the weather, visit AFC Urgent Care North Andover. We provide treatment for all patients and give the best care possible, no matter the ailment.
Potential Winter Illnesses
Winter is full of a variety of illnesses that can happen at any time. Flu season happens from October to March each year and affects millions of individuals. Getting the annual flu vaccine can help prevent you from getting sick and spreading it to others. Getting the flu can also develop into bronchitis, pneumonia, or strep throat. Additionally, norovirus is a common virus that happens in the winter months. This causes vomiting or diarrhea for a few days – similar to food poisoning. This is also an extremely contagious illness that is airborne. In children, they have the potential to catch all of the illnesses mentioned as well as RSV or croup. These are respiratory illnesses that can cause fever, coughing, and chest pain in babies and small children.
Small children, the elderly, and those with autoimmune diseases are more likely to suffer from complications of any of these illnesses. Complications can include high fevers, severe symptoms, and hospitalization. It’s important to avoid contact with others while you are sick.
Tips to Stay Healthy
Eat Healthy
Eating a healthy diet will help your immune system throughout the year, not just during the winter season. This also includes drinking clear fluids and staying hydrated. Healthy diets should be balanced with plenty of fruits and vegetables. To prepare for the winter specifically, eat foods that are high in vitamin D. This can also help combat seasonal depression. Staying hydrated is not only good for your immune system, but it also helps flush toxins out of your body and can improve the health of your skin.
Exercise Regularly
Exercise should be a part of everyone’s daily routine, no matter how light it is. Doing small activities such as yoga, stretching, or walking around the neighborhood is enough to get your heart pumping. Exercise helps give your energy throughout the day, helps you sleep at night, and helps your brain produce endorphins that make you happy. If you already exercise regularly, be sure to change your routines based on the conditions outside. Slipping and falling can cause broken or fractured bones if not careful.
Maintain Good Hygiene
Washing your hands frequently can make a major difference in getting sick. After coming inside, it’s important to wash your hands immediately to get rid of any germs that may have been brought in. Additionally, be sure to wash your hands before eating. Preparing raw food can harbor germs that contain norovirus, and taking proper precautions will help avoid that.
Dress for the Weather
Wearing enough warm layers when going outside can minimize the risk of frostbite. Wear moisture-wicking clothing if exercising outdoors to avoid trapping moisture and getting sick. Additionally, wearing hats and mittens can help contain body warmth.
It can be possible to stay healthy this winter despite flu season and COVID-19 still in our communities. Avoiding contagious illnesses is the best way to avoid getting sick, and there are certain daily habits that can help you feel your best. If you are feeling under the weather, visit AFC Urgent Care North Andover. We provide treatment for all patients and give the best care possible, no matter the ailment.
Potential Winter Illnesses
Winter is full of a variety of illnesses that can happen at any time. Flu season happens from October to March each year and affects millions of individuals. Getting the annual flu vaccine can help prevent you from getting sick and spreading it to others. Getting the flu can also develop into bronchitis, pneumonia, or strep throat. Additionally, norovirus is a common virus that happens in the winter months. This causes vomiting or diarrhea for a few days – similar to food poisoning. This is also an extremely contagious illness that is airborne. In children, they have the potential to catch all of the illnesses mentioned as well as RSV or croup. These are respiratory illnesses that can cause fever, coughing, and chest pain in babies and small children.
Small children, the elderly, and those with autoimmune diseases are more likely to suffer from complications of any of these illnesses. Complications can include high fevers, severe symptoms, and hospitalization. It’s important to avoid contact with others while you are sick.
Tips to Stay Healthy
Eat Healthy
Eating a healthy diet will help your immune system throughout the year, not just during the winter season. This also includes drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated. Healthy diets should be balanced with plenty of fruits and vegetables. To prepare for the winter specifically, eat foods that are high in vitamin D. This can also help combat seasonal depression. Staying hydrated is not only good for your immune system, but it also helps flush toxins out of your body and can improve the health of your skin.
Exercise Regularly
Exercise should be a part of everyone’s daily routine no matter how light it is. Doing small activities such as yoga, stretching, or walking around the neighborhood is enough to get your heart pumping. Exercise helps give your energy throughout the day, will help you sleep at night, and helps your brain produce endorphins that make you happy. If you already exercise regularly, be sure to change your routines based on the conditions outside. Slipping and falling can cause broken or fractured bones if not careful.
Maintain Good Hygiene
Washing your hands frequently can make a major difference in getting sick. After coming inside, it’s important to wash your hands immediately to get rid of any germs that may have been brought in. Additionally, be sure to wash your hands before eating. Preparing raw food can harbor germs that contain norovirus, and taking proper precautions will help avoid that.
Dress for the Weather
Wearing enough warm layers when going outside can minimize the risk of frostbite. Wear moisture-wicking clothing if exercising outside to avoid trapping moisture and getting sick. Additionally, wearing hats and mitten can help contain body warmth.
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