MUHC experts offer their annual tips for a happy and healthy winter
This year’s edition of the beloved Montreal winter has already blessed us with a series of big snowfalls, bouts of freezing rain and the always enjoyable bone-chilling cold snaps. Experts from the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) would like to help you find a way to embrace and enjoy Montreal’s extreme weather, while staying safe and avoiding injury.
The following MUHC experts can comment on various aspects of winter-living, from the common cold to snow shovelling.
KEEP OUR SENIORS ACTIVE AND SAFE
The snow and ice that come with colder temperatures may be just what our kids have been waiting for, but it’s a very different story for seniors. Frozen sidewalks and heavy snow can make getting around a challenge for anyone, but they can make it especially risky for seniors – increasing their chances of falls and injury. Also, freezing weather can make winter a particularly difficult time for arthritis sufferers, decreasing their mobility even further. Speak to our experts for tips on how to keep seniors active and safe during the winter months.
Dr José Morais, Director of Geriatric Medicine at the MUHC, and Dr Elizabeth Hazel, Rheumatology Specialist at the MUHC
THE THRILLS AND SPILLS OF WINTER SPORTS
Staying active in the winter is important, healthy and fun, but safety should always come first. Think with your helmet! Always put down the chairlift bar when you ski, obey warning signage and ensuring that you have the correct safety equipment for whatever sport you are enjoying. Check in with our expert for quick and easy tips on how to enjoy an active, adventurous and safe winter.
Dr. Tarek Razek, head of Traumatology at the MUHC (adult sites)
HOW TO AVOID THE DREADED WINTER FLU
Cough, congestion, and fever are words we associate with the cold winter months. Wouldn’t it be great if this year you could enjoy the beauty of the season without the inconvenience of the germs and bugs that come with it? Speak to our expert to find out how you can avoid contamination by your colleagues at the office, or even your own kids at home, by taking a few simple precautions.
Dr. Michael Libman, Director of the Centre for Tropical Diseases Director
DON’T BE SAD – ENJOY THE WINTER
Trudging through snow and ice, the constant cold, the lack of sunlight – it’s no wonder many people feel down during the winter. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is not just the ‘winter blues’, but a functional impairment that is recurrent around the same time each year. People who suffer SAD often feel tired and lethargic, and withdraw from friends and social activities; up to 90% may experience the need for increased sleep. Speak to our expert to find out how a little exercise and even ‘light therapy’ can make all the difference.
Dr. Karine Igartua, Medical Director, MUSIC
REMEMBER TO COVER UP
Montreal winters are famous for their sub-zero temperatures. To avoid frostbite, remember to bundle up before heading out. A hat and scarf can help your body retain a lot of heat, and gloves are vital for protecting the extremities, which have reduced blood flow during cold weather. Moisturizer is an important way to keep skin hydrated and to avoid dryness and cracking. Incredibly, sunburns can also occur in winter, so remember to wear sunscreen to protect against UV rays even on cloudy days. Our expert can tell you all you need to know about protecting your skin during the winter months.
Dr. Beatrice Wang, head of Dermatology at the MUHC
BREATHE EASY THIS WINTER
Taking a deep breath is not always easy when the temperature is below freezing. It is even harder for people with respiratory disorders like asthma and COPD. On very cold days, it is best to avoid spending time outdoors. If you do have to go out, do so for the shortest possible time and cover your nose and mouth with a scarf. Speak with our expert for more tips on how to keep you breathing easy this winter.
Dr. Ronald Olivenstein, Medical Director of the Montreal Chest Institute of the MUHC.
KEEP YOUR SHAPE
With heavy sweaters hiding your figure, and a tendency to be less active, it’s no surprise that many of us pack on a few extra pounds in the winter. This can be avoided by eating a healthy balanced diet and exercising at least three times a week. Of course, this is always easier said than done. Speak to our expert nutritionist for some tips on how to maintain a healthy diet this winter.
Jonathan di Tomasso, Clinical Nutritionist
DON'T MAKE SHOVELLING A HEART-BREAKER
With the recent snowfall, shovelling is once again on your list of things to do. It is important to keep in mind that shovelling is a physical activity requiring the use of muscles throughout your body - including your heart! To avoid overworking your heart, it is best to shovel at a slow and steady pace, and to be on guard for signs that you may be overdoing it, like difficulty breathing and chest pain. Speak with our expert to find out more about the risks and early warning signs of overdoing it behind the shovel.
Dr. Joe Nemeth, an Emergency Care physician at the MUHC