During the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it is important we keep in mind the health hazards that the winter months bring along. Below are some common health hazards of winter.
Dry, itchy skin
To combat dry skin all year, use warm or tepid water while showering instead of hot water. During winter months, it is advised that you use creams instead of lotions and protect your face when you are outside to reduce your risk of windburn or frostbite. If these precautions are not enough and itching persists, you should seek help from a dermatologist.
Arthritis Pain
Cold and wet weather, along with changes in barometric pressure, are the most frequent culprits of bringing on arthritis pains for individuals. You can minimize the impact of cold weather on your body and joints by using some of the following tips:
• Wear warm clothing while outdoors: mittens, socks, and hats are good options
• Stay active throughout the winter: this can include outdoor walks, swimming, or online workout classes
• Vitamin D Supplements: since we do not get enough vitamin D during the winter months from the sun, it might be a good idea to consider a supplement, consult with your doctor
Colds and Viruses
During winter months, it is common for individuals to experience a fever, chill, head congestion, and sometimes nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. In order to stay healthy and to avoid these symptoms you should get proper rest, maintain a healthy diet, wash your hands frequently, reduce stress, and exercise regularly.
If you do end up with one or more of these symptoms, when should you visit the doctor? You should visit the doctor if you have been sick for 10 or more days or if you cannot function normally due to a consistent shortness of breath, high fever, etc. Your doctor will likely recommend rest, plenty of fluids, a bland diet and for certain symptoms, medication.
Frostbite
The colder it gets outside, the more you are exposed to the risk of frostbite. With frostbite, the water in your skin’s soft tissues start to freeze. This is typically seen in fingers, nose, toes, and face. To avoid getting frostbite it is advised that you stay indoors during extremely cold weather. If you do need to go outside, you should cover your hands, ears, face, and keep your clothing dry. Anyone who experiences symptoms of frostbite, like pain and skin discoloration, should immediately go inside and head to the emergency room.
To ensure you receive all pertinent information, please update your address with the Fund Office, Wilson-McShane Corporation, when you move. To update your information, you may access the Change of Personal Information Form from the website, www.663benefits.com. You may also call (952) 851-5797 or toll free (844) 468-5917 to request a Change of Information Form.
UFCW Local 663 Members:
The Annual Meeting of members of Minneapolis Meat Cutters and Food Handlers Properties, Inc. will be held January 13, 2021 at 4:00 p.m. at the offices of UFCW Local 663, 6160 Summit Dr N, suite 600, Brooklyn Center, MN 55430. The purpose of the meeting will be to conduct general business of the corporation.