[Click! Health] Weather Turned Cold in a Week... Beware of Cold-Related Illnesses

On the 18th, when the first cold wave advisory was issued across the inland areas and the coldest weather of this fall arrived, citizens hurried on their way to work at Gwanghwamun Intersection in Seoul. Photo by Hyunmin Kim kimhyun81

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Young-won] Unlike last week when the 2023 College Scholastic Ability Test was held under warm weather, the 27th saw a return to average temperatures, becoming chilly. Starting from the 30th, as the continental high pressure system expands over northeastern China, cold air will descend, marking the beginning of full-fledged winter cold. In such rapidly dropping temperatures, caution against cold-related illnesses is necessary. Cold-related illnesses are conditions caused directly by cold that can harm the human body, including hypothermia, frostbite, immersion foot/immersion hand, and chilblains.

Hypothermia is a condition where the temperature of internal organs or muscles drops below 35℃. Symptoms can include chills, fatigue, confusion, memory and speech impairments. If a hypothermia patient is unconscious, call 119 and move them to a warm place. If their clothes are wet, remove them and wrap the patient in a blanket or sleeping bag. If the patient is conscious, warming the body with warm drinks is beneficial, but giving drinks to an unconscious patient is dangerous.

Frostbite refers to damage to the skin or subcutaneous tissue caused by exposure to severe cold. It mainly occurs on exposed areas such as the nose, ears, cheeks, and chin. The skin gradually turns white or yellowish-gray and feels abnormally hard. There is also a decrease in skin sensation. The most important emergency treatment for frostbite patients is to quickly transport them to a hospital. It is also recommended to soak the frostbitten area in warm water at about 38~42℃ for 20~40 minutes or apply a warm towel to the face and ears. Elevating the frostbitten area slightly can help reduce swelling and pain.

Immersion foot and immersion hand occur when hands and feet are exposed to cold water below 10℃ for a long time. Initially, itching, numbness, and tingling pain occur, and as the condition progresses, the feet swell and the skin color changes to red, blue, or black. Blisters, tissue necrosis, and skin ulcers may also develop. If these symptoms appear, remove wet shoes, socks, and gloves, gently wash the affected area with warm water, and then dry thoroughly.

Chilblains are inflammatory reactions of the skin and skin tissue caused by continuous exposure to mild cold in low temperature and humid conditions. In a warm place, itching worsens, and in severe cases, congestion, blisters, and ulcers may occur. Mild cases usually improve within a few weeks without special treatment. When chilblains occur, soaking the affected area in warm water to warm the skin and massaging to promote blood circulation is recommended. Avoid scratching the chilblain area, keep it clean, and moisturize as well.

To prevent cold-related illnesses, maintain indoor temperatures at an appropriate 18~20℃ and avoid dryness. Before going out, check the wind chill temperature; if it is cold, refrain from outdoor activities, and wear cold-weather gear when going outside.