A doctor has issued a warning over things we do at Christmas that could be harmful to people with specific health conditions. Dr Hana Patel has highlighted that individuals with four particular conditions are more likely to experience worse symptoms at this time of year if they indulge in festive habits like overeating and not exercising.
While the colder weather and increased spread of illness during winter play a part, our holiday behaviour could also hinder our recovery. Speaking in collaboration with Saga Health, Dr Patel stated: “Cold weather can also aggravate existing health conditions including respiratory, circulatory, skeletal, and skin conditions. Symptoms of these conditions can worsen and the ability of our bodies to manage them may decrease.”
To counteract this, she has compiled a list of simple tips to maintain good health during the festive period, which includes avoiding overindulgence at the annual Christmas dinner and maintaining a balanced diet throughout the winter season. The doctor advised against spending all of Christmas day lounging around, as staying active is crucial for maintaining mobility and cardiovascular health.
It also helps improve mental health during what can be a stressful time of year for some. Dr Patel’s next piece of advice is to ensure you get enough rest and avoid over-stressing yourself, as this can weaken your immune system.
She warned that people with respiratory conditions, including asthma, COPD and pneumonia, could be at the highest risk of worsening symptoms due to the colder, drier air that irritates the airways and exacerbates breathing problems. The expert recommended that people with these conditions wear a scarf so the air entering their airways is slightly warmer, and drink plenty of fluids to combat dryness.
Similarly, those who suffer from skin conditions like eczema will know all too well the damage that dry winter air and central heating can do to their health. Regularly moisturising your skin is essential to make it through the winter, and covering up when you go outdoors and taking vitamin D supplements can also help your skin, according to the doctor.
Those with circulatory issues such as high blood pressure, or those at an increased risk of heart attack or stroke, may need to take extra precautions during the festive season. The body’s natural response to cold is to constrict the blood vessels to conserve heat, which can put additional strain on the circulatory system.
Additionally, the doctor warned that surgeries and pharmacies often close over the holiday period, so it’s crucial to ensure you have all necessary medications in advance. Lastly, symptoms of skeletal conditions like arthritis, osteoporosis and scoliosis can worsen in colder weather, leading to increased pain, stiffness and reduced mobility. The expert advised those with these conditions to stay as warm as possible by wearing loose layers to avoid further restricting movement, and to consider supplements to support bone and joint health if needed.