Why People with Cancer Need Extra Care in Cold Weather

Posted on: Dec 22, 2021 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Why People with Cancer Need Extra Care in Cold Weather

The winter season comes with a unique set of pros and cons. While it is associated with lots of fun get-togethers, parties and vacations, it is not the best time of the year for cancer patients. As their immune system weakens, the cold weather makes cancer patients prone to different health conditions and makes things uncomfortable for them. Those undergoing chemotherapy may also feel excessively fatigued and dehydrated during the winter season. Hence, besides taking necessary precautions, cancer patients must also stay covered under health insurance throughout. In case of a medical emergency, policyholders can opt for the finest treatment without worrying about the bills. If you or a loved one is suffering from cancer, the following information can come in handy.

Risks of cold weather

People with cancer are more susceptible to conditions caused by cold weather. Some common risks associated with the winter season are:

1. Hypothermia or dangerously low body temperature:

The side effects of cancer treatment can result in a weak immune system, dehydration, anaemia and lethargy. These conditions can make one more sensitive to cold and highly susceptible to a cold-weather condition called hypothermia. In this condition, the body loses heat faster than it can produce, thereby leading to extremely low body temperature. Hypothermia can affect the functioning of the heart, nervous system and other organs in the body. If left untreated, it can also lead to serious respiratory conditions and complete heart failure.

2.Frostbite or freezing of the skin:

Chemotherapy, a form of cancer treatment, often causes peripheral neuropathy or weakness and numbness in the hands and feet. This numbness or reduced sensation makes cancer patients less sensitive to cold weather conditions. When the body is less aware of low temperatures, the chances of suffering a frostbite increase. Frostbite is a condition in which the skin and underlying tissues freeze in no time. This can lead to inflammation, skin discolouration and waxy-looking skin.

3.Sudden falls:

Neuropathy or damage to the peripheral nerves is a common side effect of chemotherapy. The condition can lead to tingling and numbness in the hands and feet, muscle weakness, low blood pressure, difficulty in walking and frequent falls. People with low platelet count or thrombocytopenia must take extra care as any kind of injury can be dangerous for them. Since platelets are important for the clotting of blood, a low platelet count associated with blood cancer can mean serious bleeding. Cancer treatment also affects bone density and increases the risk of fractures.

Considering the risks cold weather poses to cancer patients, it is important to take extra care during the winter season. Also, keeping at the health insurancepolicy handy is wise to avail timely and quality treatment whenever required. With a health plan, a cancer patient can opt for cashless treatment at network hospitals and avoid the hassle of filing a reimbursement claim.

Tips for cancer patients to stay safe during the winter season

• They should avoid stepping out when it is extremely cold outside. The low temperature and cold winds can make things worse.

• If they need to go out, they should dress in warm layers. Also, cancer patients should cover their hands with heavy gloves or mittens and feet with woollen socks and comfortable boots. They must wear a woollen cap and use a neck scarf to cover their nose, mouth and ears.

• Cancer patients need to stay hydrated at all times. Apart from water, they can drink soups and other non-caffeinated fluids every few hours.

• Cancer treatments can cause skin dryness and irritation, especially during the winter season. Hence, the use of moisturisers is recommended.

• If it is snowing outside, the walkways should be clear before a cancer patient steps out. Also, they need to wear comfortable boots or shoes with a good grip.

Conclusion

Since cold weather can be tough for cancer patients, it is important to take precautions to prevent complications. Consulting the doctor at every step and including the right foods in the diet to strengthen immunity and prevent anaemia is important. Cancer patients need to keep their health insurance plan active too, by paying the premiums on time. In case there is a medical emergency, they can rush to a network hospital and avail cashless treatment.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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