How to Prevent Heating-related Illnesses in the Winter

 

As temperatures drop in winter, many people might frequently use their home heater to warm up rooms. It is important to turn heaters on to make sure house feels cozy and warm but if you turn them on too long or set the temperature too high, it can make you sick.

Excessive heating in a closed indoor space can result in heating-related illnesses as it unables your body to adapt the difference of temperature outside and inside. Common symptoms are itchiness or dryness in the eyes, nose, throat etc., and also include headaches, chest congestion, dizziness, or fatigue. In severe cases, it can cause joint aches around hips and knees or cause your hands and feet to swell.

Then what should you do to prevent these illnesses? First, keep the indoor temperature around 18-20 degrees(Celcius). The larger the difference of indoor and outdoor temperature, the more difficult it becomes for your body to adapt temperature change. Ultiamtely, it can damage your immune system. Also, ventilate your room about 20-30 minutes before going out so that your body can slowly prepare to adapt the cold air outside.

Still, many people would hesitate to frequently ventilate rooms because of cold air. However, ventilation can prevent shortage of oxygen in room and the growth of molds and microorganisms on windows. When continuously exposed to such polluted air, it becomes easier to catch heating-related illnesses, and therefore, it is essential to ventilate frequently.

Indoor humidity is another serious factor that can cause heating-related illness. The appropriate humidity is 40-60%, and you can use a humidifier or a wet towel, etc. Don’t forget that when using humidifiers, you have to clean it regularly! Another good option is to grow plants that help adjust humidity level. :)

The best way to prevent heating-related illnesses is to refrain from using heating equipment! Wearing outers, blanket, indoor shoes, and other insulating items that will significantly help maintain your body heat. We hope you spend this winter healthy without catching heating-related illnesses!