Work Stress, Family Stress, Heat Stress…………..AND now Cold Stress!! - originally written Fall 2013 for upcoming cold months

Work Stress, Family Stress, Heat Stress…………..AND now Cold Stress!!

By Colleen Gemmill, D.E. Gemmill, Inc – November 2013

     Fall is upon us and with it comes a sigh of relief for some who can see their schedules become lighter, along with thoughts of colder temperatures and (dare I say it) snow. Many of your jobs and recreational activities will take you out into the adverse weather and could pose a threat to your health in the form of cold stress.

      There are many forms of cold stress including Hypothermia, Frostbite, Trench Foot, and Chilblains. All can be dangerous, but all are preventable. It is important to learn what to do to prevent cold stress as well as knowing the warning signs and treatment.

     Hypothermia occurs when the body uses up its stored energy and can no longer produce heat. It usually transpires after prolonged exposure to the cold. Early symptoms include shivering, fatigue, loss of coordination, confusion and disorientation. Late stage symptoms include lack of shivering, bluish skin, dilated pupils, slowed pulse/breathing, and a possible loss of consciousness.  A few action steps to take are call for medical help, move victim to warm shelter, remove wet clothing, warm center of body with blankets or clothing (don’t rub skin), if conscious give a warm beverage.

     Frostbite is an injury to the body caused by freezing. It usually affects the nose, ears, fingers and toes. Symptoms are reduced blood flow to hands and feet, numbness, tingling/stinging, and bluish or pale skin. Action steps to take include getting into a warm room, immerse affected area in warm water or warm area using body heat. Do not use heating pad or fire place and do not rub.

   

     Trench Foot is an injury to the feet resulting from extended exposure to wet cold conditions. Symptoms are reddening of skin, numbness, leg cramps, swelling, tingling pain, blisters and bleeding under skin. Treatment includes removing shoes and wet socks, dry feet, avoid walking (this may cause tissue damage).

   

     Chilblains are ulcers formed by damaged small blood vessels. This is caused by repeated exposure of skin to temperatures just above freezing to as high as 60 degrees. Symptoms include redness, itching, blistering, inflammation and possible ulceration. Action steps include avoid scratching, warm skin slowly, corticosteroid cream to relieve itching and swelling, keep blisters and ulcers clean and covered.

   

     What can you do to avoid cold stress? Wear layers of loose clothing, go to warm areas during breaks, carry extra socks, gloves, hats and blankets. Also add chemical hot packs to your first aid kit and avoid touching cold metal with bare skin.

   

     So whether you are working or playing in the cold winter months keep yourself and others safe. Always be prepared for what Mother Nature sends your way. 

From snow removal, work and play,  D. E. Gemmill has the gear to keep you safe during snow season! Check it out here - please scroll down to bottom of sales page.