WEATHERING WINTER

Winter isn't all bad. In addition to relief from seasonal
allergies and bug bites, its onset may also ease your aching head. A
recent study of more than 7,000 people found that fewer reported severe head-
aches when temperatures dipped or the barometric pressure climbed.
    Of course, winter brings its own health hazards from the shorter, colder
days as well as from seasonal lifestyle changes. For example, heart attacks
spike around the holidays, even in sunny Los Angeles, and studies have pinpointed
Christmas and New Year's Day as the deadliest days of the year. But just as
you might put snow tires on your car, you can winterize your health habits.
     Don't forget your doctor. One  reason mortality increases during the
holidays may be that people who are busy with family, friends, and obligations delay seeking care. And since doctors' offices and hospitals are often short-staffed over the holidays, if you or someone you care for becomes ill, keep extra close tabs on tests, medications,
 and procedures.
     Warm up, then bundle up. Prevent the jump in blood pressure that
 can occur with sudden exertion in cold air by warming up inside, preferably by
 moving your muscles in the same way you will outdoors. Dress in layers, with
 a synthetic wicking material closest to your skin, a middle layer of wool or
 fleece, and an outer wind- and water-resistant jacket.
     Take a morning walk. An hour's exposure to early-morning sunlight may
 help prevent or ease mild winter doldrums, especially when combined with
  exercise. For seasonal affective disorder (winter depression), use a special lamp
  that simulates bright-white daylight.
     Wear a scarf. Wrapping it around your nose and mouth warms the air you
  breathe and can prevent asthma attacksTo prevent problems while shoveling,
warm up your muscles first, dress in layers, and consider wearing a scarf.
in some people. If your asthma flares when you exercise in cold weather, talk
with your doctor about using an inhaler such as albuterol (Proven til HFA, Ventolin
HFA) 10 to 20 minutes before you go out in addition to your other medication.
Avoid burning firewood or incense. The indoor pollution they create may
exceed outdoor pollution from sources such as car exhaust, and can be particu-
larly dangerous to people with asthma or lung disease.
     Don't overindulge. A high-fat meal can cause arteries to stiffen and triglyceride levels to soar. Too much alcohol can induce heart arrhythmias and leadto accidents. By eating and drinking
moderately-and staying active-you can avoid gaining the pound or so most
people put on over the holidays.
     Watch your step. To reduce the risk of falling on an icy sidewalk, bend
your knees and take tiny sideways steps. If necessary, sit down and push yourself
forward with your hands. On a frozen stairway, grasp the railing with both
 hands and go up or down sideways.
     Take your sunshine vitamin. In  the winter the sun isn't intense enough
 in northern states to stimulate production of vitamin D. Aim for 800 to 1,000
 international units daily.
Rinse your nose with saltwater.That can help relieve chronic nose and
sinus symptoms and may prevent colds and other viruses from taking hold. You
can use sterile saline nasal sprays or anirrigation kit like a Neti Pot.