Be careful of heat shock in winter.

A sudden drop in temperature can have various effects on the body. Elderly people, in particular, need to be careful. Here are three reasons why.

① Your body will become more prone to stiffness.

As we age, muscle mass decreases, making it difficult to generate heat on our own. When the body gets cold, blood flow slows down, making it difficult for nutrients to reach the muscles, causing them to stiffen. Reactions to falls and other balance problems also tend to be slower, and hospitalizations due to fractures from falls tend to increase during the winter months. Make use of accessories such as warm socks, leg warmers, and belly warmers.

② Blood pressure tends to be high

When the outside air gets cold, blood vessels constrict, requiring more force to pump blood, which raises blood pressure. Sustained high blood pressure can contribute to various diseases, including stroke and cerebral hemorrhage.

③ Sudden changes in blood pressure due to temperature fluctuations

In cold environments, blood vessels constrict, causing blood pressure to rise, while in warm environments, blood vessels dilate, causing blood pressure to fall. Suddenly moving from a warm room to a cold changing room or toilet can cause a rapid change in blood pressure, which is called "heat shock." Individuals with pre-existing conditions such as high blood pressure or arteriosclerosis should be careful, as this can lead to loss of consciousness, myocardial infarction, or stroke.

Measures you can take at home

• Place a small heater in the toilet.
• Warm up the bathroom, including the changing room, before taking a bath.
• Create an environment where there are no large temperature fluctuations inside the house.

You can prevent illness with just a little effort. Let's take another look at your home environment so that your family can live together in peace.