Keep yourself warm and hydrated in winters

Wellbeing

As winter makes its presence felt in the Capital, albeit at a tardy pace, so do the problems associated with skin. Climatic changes impact the body negatively with dry skin, dandruff and cracked lips being a common problem faced by many.

Many doctors of the city have now come up with a long list of preventive measures to ensure that their patients and Delhizens  enjoy a hassle-free winter.
According to Dr Karuna Malhotra, cosmetologist & homeopath physician from Cosmetic Skin and Homeo Clinic, along with medicinal precautions it is necessary to make amendments in one’s diet in the same manner “wardrobe is changed every season”.
“Often people do complain of chilblains in winter months, which tend to occur in early part of winters, especially in children and women. It often starts with redness, swelling and occasionally blisters mainly on fingers and toes. Chilblains occur due to abnormal reaction to cold, due to which blood vessels of peripheral parts contract, leading to a reduced blood supply,” Dr Malhotra said.
She elaborated, “Such aliments can be prevented in individuals by warm clothing especially woollen gloves and socks and regular exercise. Intake of calcium and drugs may be needed in some patients suffering from chilblains for dilatation of blood vessels.”

Besides suggesting precautionary measures like applying vaseline, moisturiser, sunscreen, oil, the doctor also emphasises the fact that one has to stay hydrated during the winters. “Eat fruits and vegetables that are water-based, such as apples, radish and cucumbers. These foods can help curb hunger and boost your water intake, to keep you healthy and hydrated all day,” she said.
Metrolife also spoke to other doctors who had an interesting outlook about the skin ailments. “If you would travel to areas where the winter season is long, one will find locals there better equipped to fight the winters. In places like Leh or Ladakh traditional practices such as applying raw butter and so on is used. Fortunately, Delhi is not known for its chilly winters and people here tend to take this fact lightly. Their priorty is to keep themselves warm, thus neglecting proper skin care. This often leads to reduced immunity on part of the individual’s skin,” Dr Ali of Indraprastha Apollo Hospital said.