Tips for staying healthy in frigid temperatures

With temperatures reaching below zero, it's time to consider how frigid temperatures impact your health. Dr. Matt Nelson, emergency medicine physician at HSHS St. Vincent Hospital, says his biggest concern in the winter is hypothermia. Dr. Nelson says it mostly affects those who are very old or young. Other common conditions dr. Nelson has seen during the winter include frostbite and dehydration. He recommends everyone to avoid being outside for long periods of time. But if you must be outside, here’s what you need to know: - Dress warm by adequately layering up. - Use hand and feet warmers to avoid frostbite. - Stay hydrated because the air is dry. - Avoid alcohol if you're spending time outside. - If you're traveling make sure you have emergency kit and equipment like a warm blanket. "I’d say every hour you need to warm up for at least fifteen minutes,” says Dr. Nelson. “Get yourself warm. Drink some warm liquids to warm your insides. Eat something too. That's important too.” Dr. Nelson also mentioned local warming shelters for those who need it: St. John's Homeless Shelter and New Community Shelter.