As winter deepens and temperatures drop, the impact of cold weather on health cannot be overlooked. Experts advise that the elderly and those with chronic illnesses should take scientific measures to protect themselves from the cold during winter, minimizing the adverse effects of weather on their health.Shang Juju, Deputy Director of the Cardiovascular Department at Beijing Hospital, notes that cold temperatures can cause blood vessels to constrict or even spasm, increasing the risk of angina in coronary heart disease patients. Heart failure patients are prone to worsening their condition due to respiratory infections. Diabetics often suffer from peripheral nerve and vascular damage, reducing sensitivity to temperature and pain stimuli, making them particularly vulnerable to frostbite and scalds.
Shang recommends that cardiovascular patients avoid going out before 10 a.m. when morning cold triggers sympathetic nervous system activation, making acute cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events more likely. Staying warm helps prevent blood pressure fluctuations, reducing risks of cerebral hemorrhage, stroke, and heart attack. Additionally, avoid excessive winter tonics, maintain a light diet, manage emotional fluctuations, and keep regular sleep patterns.
Zhou Zhongliang, Deputy Chief Physician of Orthopedics at Anhui Provincial Hospital of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, explains that feet are the body's most cold-sensitive area, being the farthest from the heart with the longest blood circulation path. He recommends daily foot soaks in warm water during cold weather—20 minutes per session at around 42°C (108°F)—combined with massaging the Yongquan acupoint on the sole to warm and unblock meridians.
"The head, neck, and waist also require special attention," Zhou emphasized. Traditional Chinese medicine views the head as "the convergence point of all yang energies and the intersection of all meridians." Therefore, wearing a hat that covers the forehead is essential when going out in winter. The neck should also be protected from the cold to reduce the risk of cervical spondylosis, pharyngitis, and cerebrovascular diseases. Wearing a scarf outdoors is highly recommended."The waist is the residence of the kidneys," and since kidneys "prefer warmth and dislike cold," both men and women are advised to wear mid-to-long length outerwear in winter to prevent the waist from getting cold.
In recent years, "warm patches" and electric heating vests have become new "cold-weather essentials." While enjoying the warmth they provide, it's crucial to avoid burns caused by improper use.Dermatologists at several hospitals report treating multiple patients recently for low-temperature burns caused by heating pads. Low-temperature burns result from prolonged exposure to heat sources around 45°C to 50°C (113°F to 122°F). These burns are often unnoticed initially and may only be detected when blisters form on the skin.Experts advise selecting reputable brands when purchasing heating pads, electric vests, or hot water bottles. Avoid direct skin contact during use, especially for young children with limited verbal communication skills and elderly individuals with diminished skin sensitivity. When warming up, carefully monitor temperatures and avoid prolonged heating on the same body part.