With this week’s dangerously cold weather, health experts are reminding everyone how avoid needing to make a trip to the emergency room. Lakeland Emergency Department Nurse Manager Kathy Effa tells WSJM News they do see a spike in visits when it’s this cold. One major cause is frostbite. Bundle up to avoid it.
“Dressing with loose-layered clothing and warm coats, gloves, hats, scarves, keeping all of your body parts covered is key to keeping your body temperature at a normal and safe level,” Effa said. “Synthetic materials are better than natural fibers, so thoser people who are wearing those snow suits and synthetic fibers are better protected.”
Effa says another problem is hypothermia. She advises anyone who’s going to be outdoors to make sure they’re well-bundled, well-hydrated, and well-rested. Other common causes of emergency room visits when it’s like this are falls, crashes, and snow blower incidents. Effa asks everyone to be extra cautious.
