What’s a bit of cold to the body, it is winter after all? That may be true, but the current cold snap which sees the mercury dip to -10° can pose serious health risks to everyone in more ways than you may imagine.

Can I do sports outdoors?

Yes, of course you can but if you do, remember to cover your mouth with a scarf, in addition to dressing up warmly. If you breathe in cold air too quickly it can cause asthma and drying of the airways, exposing them to viral and bacterial diseases.

Heating the home

Most of us wouldn’t think twice about switching on the central heating during the cold snap. But it is also advisable to open the windows for a few minutes once a day to freshen the air. Airing the home is particularly important if you use an old stove. Carbon monoxide is odourless and kills quickly. If you feel dizzy or have headaches around old stoves or possibly faulty heating installations, dial 112 and get your heating systems checked by a specialist.

Keep drinking

Because the air is very dry, a greater volume of fluid will evaporate from the body during a cold snap, leading to a risk of dehydration. Drinking water often is the best way to combat this.

Do I have frostbite?

Frostbite results from over exposure to the cold of extremities like hands and feet. In the first stage, it is noticeable from the pain. Pouring cold water from the tap and slowly increasing the heat can help remedy the situation. In more advanced stages, patients may find blisters on hands and feet. If this happens, do not open the blisters. Visit a doctor immediately.

I’m feeling sleepy

Prolonged over exposure to low temperature may lead to hypothermia, when the body core temperature drops below 35°C. Symptoms may include slurred speech, shivering, drowsiness and loss of consciousness. If you or someone you know shows signs of symptoms of hypothermia, get to a hospital as quickly as possible.

Advice from Luxembourg’s sanitary inspection service.