Just as winter changes the natural world, it can bring a range of physical problems for women. Falling temperatures, changes in humidity, dry skin, a tendency to drink less water and changes in daily routine can expose women to various health risks. Mothers of young children, pregnant women, working women, older women and people with long-term illnesses need extra care. In winter, colds and coughs, sore throats, dry skin, chapped lips, cracked skin on the hands and feet, joint pain, constipation and urinary problems can become more troublesome. To enjoy winter in good health, women need health awareness, a balanced diet, cleanliness and the habit of seeking treatment in time.
Dry skin, itching and chapped lips
One of the most common winter problems for women is dry skin. Cold wind, low humidity, bathing in very hot water and frequent use of soap can strip the skin of its natural moisture. The result is tightness, itching, roughness, chapped lips and cracked heels.
Complications: Deep cracks in the skin can cause pain, bleeding and infection. Symptoms can also worsen for those with eczema or other skin conditions.
At home: Bathe in lukewarm water and avoid long baths. Apply an unscented moisturiser straight after bathing. Petroleum jelly can be used on the lips and a thick moisturiser on dry patches of the hands and feet. Wear protective gloves when washing dishes or clothes where needed. Do not scratch itchy skin hard.
Colds, coughs, sore throats and respiratory infections
Viral colds, coughs, sore throats and flu can increase in winter. In cold weather people stay close together indoors, which gives infections more chance to spread. For women with asthma or chronic respiratory disease, cold air can worsen breathing difficulties.
Complications: A persistent cough, breathlessness, dehydration and, in some cases, serious infections such as pneumonia. Illness in pregnant women and those with long-term conditions should not be ignored.
At home: Enough rest, plenty of fluids, warm drinks and, for a sore throat, gargling with lukewarm salt water can help. Cover the mouth when coughing or sneezing, wash hands with soap and limit close contact with people who are ill. Avoid smoke, dust and heavy cooking smoke. Do not take antibiotics without a doctor’s advice.
Hair loss and scalp problems
In winter the scalp can dry out, increasing dandruff, itching and rough hair. Hair loss can also come from poor nutrition, stress, hormonal changes, thyroid problems and some medicines, so heavy hair loss should not be dismissed as a problem of the weather alone.
Complications: Prolonged hair loss can leave hair thin, and many women suffer distress and a loss of confidence as a result.
At home: Use a mild shampoo, keep the scalp clean as needed, do not pull hard on wet hair and eat nourishing food. Fish, eggs, lentils, milk, nuts, vegetables and fruit can be part of the diet. Do not take high-dose iron, vitamin or other supplements without a doctor’s advice.
Extra care in pregnancy
In winter, pregnant women have to look after the health of the unborn child as well as their own. Cold-related infections, not drinking enough water, poor nutrition and exhaustion can all cause trouble. Not every medicine is safe in pregnancy, so cold and cough remedies, painkillers or herbal products should not be taken without advice.
Complications: A serious infection, dehydration or the worsening of an existing illness can put both mother and baby at risk.
At home: Eat a balanced diet, rest enough, dress warmly and safely, and keep up regular antenatal check-ups as the doctor advises. Ask a doctor about the vaccines you need.
When to see a doctor
Seek emergency care for breathlessness, chest pain, unusual drowsiness, lips turning bluish, severe dehydration or signs of a serious allergic reaction.
বাংলায় মূল প্রতিবেদন পড়ুন · Read the original Bengali report