Brought to you by WBIW News and Network Indiana
Last updated on Friday, January 4, 2008
(INDIANAPOLIS) - Extreme cold temperatures can create injuries and complicate health issues if left unattended.
Indianapolis Methodist Hospital emergency room physician Casey Patrick says the most common cold-weather ailment is frostbite. Exposed skin changes colors and can lead to loss of fingers and toes.
Patrick says the cold and the wind can also be a trigger for some patients with asthma.
Prolonged exposure in high winds can create windburns.
Patrick suggests using common sense and remembering "what grandma always said": wear a hat and gloves, put on an extra pair of socks, stay dry, and dress in layers.
As for the myth about warming up with a shot of whiskey or a bottle of booze? Dr. Patrick says that is a bad idea. Alcohol alters your sense so you ignore the cold while it affects the body and causes you to lose body heat faster.
1340 AM WBIW welcomes comments and suggestions by calling 812.277.1340 during normal business hours or by email at comments@wbiw.com
© Ad-Venture Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved.