Cold weather safety
Date: January 20, 2025 Author: Penn Highlands Snow can look really fluffy and pretty when you are watching it fall from indoors, but when you are outside shoveling it, as well as playing, walking or driving in snowy conditions, the accumulation of these white flakes can be hazardous to your health. “Winter weather is tough on everyone. When temperatures drop, snow falls or winter storms occur, we see an increase in the number of people presenting at our Emergency Departments,” said Shane R. Sergent, DO, an emergency medicine physician and the Central Region Medical Director of Emergency Medicine at Penn Highlands Healthcare. “Falls are common among people of all ages. People with chronic conditions such as heart or lung disease may be at risk of complications. It is important to know your health risks.” Winter storms can cause many health risks including: “One of the best ways to stay injury-free this winter is to reduce your exposure to the weather conditions that can cause them,” said Dr. Sergent. “If you suspect any injury due to snow or cold temperatures, seek medical care by a physician or provider as soon as possible; and if the condition warrants, do not hesitate to contact 9-1-1.” Penn Highlands Healthcare provides emergency care throughout Pennsylvania. Highly skilled emergency physicians, providers, nurses and staff provide 24-hour urgent care for all medical emergencies, 365 days a year. If you think your condition requires immediate treatment, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency room. To learn more, visit www.phhealthcare.org/ED.
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