The body’s circulation of blood and movement of fluids are influenced by the impact of cold on its temperature. Those with certain health problems, such as chronic venous insufficiency, heart problems and previous injuries, may be unable to prevent the development of swelling or oedema, or find that it becomes aggravated in the colder months. Knowing some simple methods of handling swelling will help maintain comfort throughout the season.
How does the cold produce swelling?
The influence of reduced temperature has a general effect on the circulation of the blood and of the fluids in the body. With cold, there is a constriction of the blood vessels, or a narrowing of the vessels (a state technically termed vasoconstriction), which closes down the supply of blood to the extremities which causes stiffness.
People suffering from swelling or accumulation of fluid should, of course, perhaps use medicine such as dytor plus tablet, which acts in the direction of helping these conditions.
Factors which may increase the chances of swelling
There are several occasions on which there are increased possibilities of the occurrence of swelling:
- Restriction of Movement. The limited movement in hard weather reduces the normal contraction of the muscles, which is necessary to pump the blood through the vessels especially so far as it consists of the legs.
- Heavy clothing and constriction: Tight boots, socks or gloves can constrict blood circulation and encourage fluid accumulation.
- Sitting and standing too long: Staying in one fixed position too long, especially if limbs, etc., are below heart level, causes continued pooling of fluids.
- Dietary changes: More salty foods are eaten, which are frequently the case in winter, and encourage water retention in the body.
How to Prevent and Control Swelling
- To prevent swelling, it is important to improve circulation through exercise. Gentle stretches of the legs or exercise of the feet should be taken, if sitting too long, even every few hours.
- Short walks in the house should be taken if you’re unable to get out.
- Occasionally, elevate the legs or arms above heart level to facilitate a return of the terminals.
- Always wear clothes which do not constrict. Wear clothes that are sufficiently large and airy that do not constrict any part of the body.
- Avoid socks or gloves with tight ribbons. Wear soft materials and those which have support.
- Always wear sufficient clothing for warmth; any great constriction should be avoided.
- Maintain normal or balanced food intake and water consumption. Take water frequently, as ordinarily that is enough, but to take even as much during the day as not to feel thirsty, water may sometimes make swelling worse.
- Avoid salty foods or preserved foods, which might cause water retention.
- Ensure that a variety of fruits, vegetables, and proteins are included in meals, as they have been found to contribute significantly to tissue health.
- It may be of assistance to use a mild massage of the swollen areas (with gentle upward strokes towards the heart) so as to encourage lymphatic flow. Employ warm showers or baths, since warmth helps to promote circulation.
- Rest with the affected limbs elevated on pillows for portions of the day.
- Adjust the remedial heat to a moderately warm level. Extremes may be of a more conservative policy than excessive constriction of the vessels.
- Where heaters are employed, the humidity of the air should be restored and kept up, so that extraordinary dryness of the skin and discomfort of the tissues are not experienced.
Medical Advice and Further Measures
Medications, such as Durite Plus 10 Tablet, may be prescribed after a medical examination for conditions like chronic Oedema or fluid in tissue, particularly when there are underlying conditions affecting the heart or kidneys. With such treatment, medical opinion must always be taken into account, considering the health and any other treatments being administered concurrently.
Compression stockings are found useful and are made specially to promote circulation, but these should not be worn unless as prescribed by a doctor or physiotherapist and should be used as directed. With due regard to these regular arrangements, visits should be made for alterations in medicines taken, changes in symptoms, and questions regarding exercise and routine.
When to Consult a Professional Advice for Swelling
While slight swelling will receive attention at home, certain signs will have to receive immediate examination:
- Swelling suddenly develops or becomes rapidly worse.
- Changes associated with pain or redness, or with shortness of breath.
- Alternating symptoms appearing with the cold weather, which do not disappear with treatment.
Adopting these measures will reduce the possibility of swellings or will ensure comfort during the cold weather of the day.