As temperatures begin to drop, the effects of cold weather can go far beyond simply feeling chilly. From putting extra strain on the heart to worsening breathing problems and joint pain, colder conditions can affect several important systems in the human body.
Dr. Claire Agathou, a general practitioner at Wellington Hospital in London, has highlighted five major changes that people may experience during the colder months. Speaking to The Independent, she also shared practical advice on how to protect your health throughout winter.
Your Immune System May Face Greater Challenges
Cold weather creates conditions that can make it easier for viruses to spread, particularly as people spend more time indoors and in close contact with others.
“Viruses survive and circulate more easily in cold, dry air, and we spend more time indoors, which increases close contact and transmission of infection,” Agathou explains.
Your Heart and Blood Vessels Work Harder
“Cold weather causes vasoconstriction, or narrowing of blood vessels, especially in the hands, feet, and skin, which can increase blood pressure and increase heart rate,” says Agathou, adding that people who have had a heart attack, those with hypertension, heart disease, or diabetes, as well as smokers, are particularly susceptible to these changes.
Cold Weather Can Affect Your Breathing
“Cold, dry air can irritate the airways and cause bronchospasm, which is a sudden tightening of the muscles in the airways. This can cause chest tightness, shortness of breath, or coughing fits, especially when suddenly leaving a warm room to the cold,” says Agathou.
People living with chronic respiratory conditions, including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), face a greater risk because low temperatures can significantly worsen their symptoms.
Your Skin Can Become Dry and Irritated
“Winter conditions are a classic trigger for eczema,” says Agathou. “The cold air is dry, and indoor heating also dries out the air, and the combination of these effects weakens the skin’s protective barrier. The result is greater moisture loss and the appearance of irritated, inflamed areas on the skin.”
Even people without severe eczema may notice unusually dry skin, itching and inflammation during this time of year.
Cold temperatures can also trigger Raynaud’s syndrome, a condition in which the small blood vessels in the fingers and toes react excessively to cold by temporarily narrowing.
As a result, the affected skin can change colour, with fingers turning white, then blue and eventually red.
Joint Pain and Stiffness May Get Worse
“People tend to be less active in winter, and the lack of movement can increase joint pain, especially with arthritis,” the doctor warns, adding that many patients with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or chronic pain conditions report worsening symptoms during the colder months. Cold weather can also make nerve endings more sensitive, amplifying pain signals.
How to Protect Your Health During Winter
“It’s very important to stay warm and dress in layers. Several thin layers retain heat better than one thick layer,” she says.
She also recommends covering the head and arms, as significant amounts of body heat can be lost through these areas.
Staying hydrated is another important part of maintaining good health, even when people do not feel as thirsty as they do during warmer weather.
“A lot of people think they don’t need as much water during the colder months, but hydration is key. Fluids support immunity and energy levels.” she says.
A balanced diet is equally important, with particular attention to getting enough protein and vitamin D. She also recommends staying physically active throughout the winter.
