Staying Healthy in Colder Months

So the colder months are coming (depending on where you live) and as we all know the harsh cold temperatures are usually the hardest for sickle cell patients.

Tips for colder weather

As a sickle cell patient I have to make sure I am playing my part to ensure I am staying healthy in these colder months. Below I am sharing some of the things I do to stay healthy in the trying colder months.

1. Dress in layers

Dressing in layers is always good because I am able to ensure that I am staying warm, and if I get too warm and it gets hot I can always take the layers off.

2. Stay hydrated

As a sickle cell patient I know that staying hydrated is key. Well I don’t know about you, but for me I find it easier to hydrate in the warmer months. I mean come on who doesn’t love a good cold glass of water. But in the colder months I find that it is easier for me to get my hydration in when I drink room temperature water.

3. Don’t skip the accessories

Sometimes I think that all I need is a coat and I am good to go. But the truth is that heat escapes from the head the quickest. So if I am heading out, I don’t forget to throw on a hat. Also while I am at it, I add a scarf and gloves too, if I get too warm I can always remove them.

4. Stay active

In the colder months I know I tend to stay indoors more; I think most people do (sickle cell or not). However, it is important that even though I may be spending more time indoors, that I am still active and find ways to move my body. Some of the things I do to say active is cooking, cleaning the house, make sure I get up and walk during commercial breaks. Pretty much anything that is not too physically demanding but allows me to move around.

5. Stay in contact with my doctor

This is a big one. I know that unlike other people (those without sickle cell) I have to be in constant communication with my doctors. I always have to remind myself, that just because I feel great does not mean I should see my doctor. When I am feeling great, I look at going to the doctor as preventative measures, for me to stay feeling great.

So these are some of the things that I like to do to stay healthy in the trying colder months. Although I am not the biggest fan of winter, I find summer to sometimes be a little bit harsher on me. My happy medium is early spring or early fall.

Overall the main thing that helps me is listening to my body and what it needs. Also sometimes it is providing my body with what it needs before it actually needs it (if that makes sense).

I hope you enjoyed reading about the preventive measures I take in the colder months for my health