3 Most Common Winter ER Visits
At the height of winter, everyone must watch out for blizzards, freezing pipes, and hypothermia—unless you live in Texas, that is.
All Texans know that winter time is more of a reprieve from the heat than it is a stroll through a snowy wonderland. Being able to comfortably wear your favorite sweater for a few weeks is a welcome change of pace from our sweltering summers, but the winter months are still a time of seasonal risk for Texans. Whether or not we get any snow, it is important to be mindful of your health as we usher in a new year.
COUGHS, SNIFFLES, & SNEEZES
Everyone’s heard it a hundred times or more. Cold and Flu Season is here! As cliched as it might feel, cold and flu season is real, and It is important to be mindful of your symptoms. What feels like just a small cold can easily turn into a severe case of the flu, if you’re not careful. You want to watch out for the signs of the flu:
- Fever
- Chills & cold sweats
- Head & body aches
- Congested sinuses & sinus pressure
- Nausea & vomiting
But the flu is not the only illness that spreads more during the winter months. Strep throat is on the rise as well, and can be just as painful as a bad case of the flu. Watch out for:
- Fever & chills
- Sore throat, causing painful swallowing
- Dehydration
- Tender or swollen lymph nodes
- Difficulty turning neck
To help keep yourself safe from these common winter afflictions, make sure you wash your hands before eating. Transferring germs that you may have touched is one of the fastest carriers of disease.
If you find yourself feeling unwell, with or without these symptoms, for a long period of time, it is always recommended to seek a physician’s advice. You can always come in for a free medical screening at Victoria ER if you are worried that you might have the flu.
SLIPS & FALLS
We might not have much snow, but when the overnight temperatures drop low, Texans are still at risk for ice. You might have heard it referred to as “black ice” on your local news, but what this term really refers to is ice that forms clear, and isn’t easily seen on walkways. Your sidewalk might have a thin layer of ice clinging to it if a cold front blew in the night before, and it can be very easy to slip on. Check for any signs of lingering wetness on pavement, as ice can often look like a small puddle when it forms in thin, slick layers.
Of course, with so much to celebrate this time of year, ice is not the only injury risk out there. If you’re decorating your house for a party, or hanging holiday lights on the roof, you are at risk for falling and causing serious injuries to yourself. Make sure you are using a secure, stable ladder when climbing to high places, and have someone with you to hold the base steady.
CAR ACCIDENTS
If the weather outside is frightful, do you know what would be delightful? Whether or not there’s snow, stay at home, stay at home, stay at home!
Its true that snow flurries are very rare in Texas, but we do still have risks for heavy rain and hail. Bad weather of any sort can make road collisions sky rocket, and with more cars on the road thanks to holiday travels, a little extra caution can keep you safe from car accidents.
One of the most important rules to remember for holiday traffic, though, is never to drink and drive. New Year’s Eve can be a fun time to throw back some champagne, but you never want to drive yourself home when you’ve had too many. Call a ride-sharing service or carpool home with a designated driver if you have plans to celebrate with alcohol this New Years.
As always, Victoria ER is here to help you and your family stay safe and healthy this winter season. While these three are some of the most common health risks in the winter, never hesitate to seek emergency help if you or your family is facing serious illness or injury. Whether you have the flu or a migraine flare up, Victoria ER is ready to take care of you.
Nutex Health, Inc. supports you and your family’s health. Come visit Victoria Emergency Center or any one of our concierge-level freestanding facilities for the emergency care you deserve, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
