2024-11-10 10:18:00
From abnormal heat to cold with a winter starter. From short sleeves to the drop in temperatures, with an abrupt change that makes it necessary to protect the body. “Sudden changes in temperature are now quite frequent. Our body, however, is able to adapt but we must protect it. It is necessary to cover ourselves adequately. Especially the hands, feet and head, which are the most exposed parts. It seems trivial but it is precisely these inattentions that favor ailments“, explains Giorgio Sesti, professor of internal medicine at La Sapienza University of Rome who therefore invites you to prepare gloves, hats and socks.
“Our body adapts with a series of systems that are essentially linked to circulation, so when it’s cold you need to gradually expose yourself and cover yourself in the right way: the body is intelligent and knows how to adapt from a circulatory point of view.”
The effect of cold on the organism
However, there are some conditions that need to be kept under particular control, for example for people who have high blood pressure. When you go from higher or more pleasant temperatures like these currently are, to colder ones, you need to be careful. In fact, a general vasoconstriction is created in the body which increases blood pressure.
Therefore, those who take antihypertensives must adjust their therapy considering that there may be changes. You need to consult your doctor, check your blood pressure and see if it is appropriate to increase the dose or add drugs“. This is a significant problem because “hypertension is a pathology that affects 18 million Italians”.
For “a young adult who is well, the lowering of the external temperature does not create problems, the people who need to be more careful, and adequately cover their hands, feet and heads, are very young children or the elderly. This is because they have a regulation system of the redistribution of the blood circulation which in the child is not mature and in the elderly is now aged”.
How you need to change your diet: alcohol doesn’t warm you
It is also important to regulate “with nutrition, because for example with meals that are too large all the blood is used for digestion and not for warming us”. Alcohol should also be avoided, because “it actually seems to warm you, but it is a vasodilator and, after a first impression, it then makes us feel colder. In short, some precautions are needed. refreshing yourself with hot drinks is not only comfortable but also useful for warming the body.” concludes Sesti.
Interview: Navigating Sudden Temperature Changes with Prof. Giorgio Sesti
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome, Prof. Sesti! Thank you for joining us today. With the recent shift from warmth to cold, many are feeling the impact on their bodies. Can you explain what happens to us when temperatures drop so abruptly?
Prof. Giorgio Sesti (GS): Thank you for having me! Yes, the transition can be quite challenging. When we experience a sudden temperature drop, our bodies respond largely through a process called vasoconstriction, where blood vessels narrow to preserve heat. This is our body’s natural way of adapting to maintain core temperature.
TNE: That’s fascinating! It sounds like our bodies have built-in mechanisms to cope with these changes. What should people specifically do to protect themselves during such abrupt transitions?
GS: Absolutely, adaptability is key. However, it’s essential to take measures to protect ourselves, especially vulnerable parts like the hands, feet, and head. I always advise wearing hats, gloves, and warm socks. It may seem trivial, but neglecting these areas can lead to discomfort and even illnesses.
TNE: Interesting! Many people might not think that covering their extremities could have such significant effects. Are there particular health risks during this seasonal shift that we should be aware of?
GS: Yes, indeed. Individuals with pre-existing conditions like high blood pressure need to be especially cautious. The shift can exacerbate their symptoms due to the increased vasoconstriction which can raise blood pressure. It’s a good time for everyone to be more mindful of their bodies and to avoid abrupt exposure to cold environments.
TNE: What can someone do to ease this transition on their body, especially if they are feeling symptoms of discomfort?
GS: Gradual exposure is essential. Instead of plunging straight into the cold, try stepping outside for shorter periods and slowly increase your exposure. This helps your body adjust more effectively. Also, don’t forget to hydrate. Even in colder months, we often overlook our fluid intake, which is crucial for circulation.
TNE: Those are excellent tips. As we move further into the winter months, what are some common ailments that could arise from these temperature changes?
GS: Common issues include colds and respiratory ailments, but more severe conditions can arise too, such as hypothermia in extreme cases. Again, being proactive—staying warm and well-covered, and managing stress levels—can mitigate many of these risks.
TNE: Thank you, Prof. Sesti, for sharing your insights. As we embrace the winter season, your advice on preparation and body awareness is invaluable. Any final words for our readers as they navigate these changes?
GS: Always listen to your body, and remember that small adjustments can lead to significant benefits. As we enter this colder season, stay warm and take care of yourselves!
TNE: Thank you again for your time and expert advice! We appreciate your insights as we all prepare for the winter ahead.