It’s fall, everyone! Whether you’re eerily excited for spooky season, a fan of football festivities, or just here for all things pumpkin spice, it’s a time of year associated with joy and nostalgia. Unfortunately, it also brings more than a few health problems.
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Do you know how to take better care of yourself and your family at this time of year? From flu season and fall allergies to dry skin and daylight saving time issues, here are some things to know to enjoy fall carefree.
Prepare properly for flu season
In the US, fall is the start of flu season, and influenza can be unpredictable and serious, even if you’re in good health. Prevention is the best way to protect yourself and your family, so be sure to get a flu shot and stay home (or keep your kids home) if you suspect signs of illness.
Don’t forget about COVID-19
Doctors and scientists expect another spike in COVID-19 cases this fall and winter, so don’t stop being vigilant or taking precautions. If you haven’t already, get your COVID-19 vaccine or booster. And to make things even easier, you can even get vaccinated at the same time (and in the same arm!) as your flu shot.
Prepare your rakes
Those changing leaves make for a beautiful landscape… and a hell of a lawn. Before you tackle tree debris, make sure you know how to rake leaves without hurting your back (even stretch beforehand!). Yard work can also strain your heart and increase your risk of heart attack, so pace yourself and learn to listen to your body.
Fight Fall Allergies
As beautiful as fall can be, it can also be agonizing for the estimated 15% to 30% of Americans prone to seasonal allergies. Allergic rhinitis (also known as hay fever) occurs when your body’s immune system reacts to pollen in the air. But you can keep your season as cold-free as possible by taking steps to prevent and deal with fall allergies.
Defend yourself from SAD
As the days get shorter, there is less sunlight to enjoy. And less sunlight can lead to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression brought on by the changing seasons. It usually starts in late fall, but there are strategies you can implement to avoid it. Light therapy, for example, can promote sleep and help combat depression.
Don’t let summer time get you down
The arrival of daylight saving time in the middle of autumn can bring exhaustion, lightheadedness and bad mood. Help your body adjust to the time change by adjusting your sleep schedule ahead of time and then sticking to a schedule, saying no to naps and avoiding caffeine until you’ve gotten used to the new normal.
Turn it on (safely of course)
From camping trips to roasting marshmallows, campfires have always been a popular way to enjoy the fall season, but they can also be risky. Make sure your entire family, especially children and teens, knows how to practice proper campfire safety to prevent injuries from burns and smoke inhalation.
Start the humidifier
Cold air is dry because it contains less moisture than warm air, and breathing cold, dry air can cause respiratory illnesses such as asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, and nosebleeds. A humidifier can help improve your breathing, reduce lung problems, and generally make living in cold weather even more comfortable.
keep your skin soft
Dry air also means dry skin and hair. Before the temperature gets truly frigid, start showing your skin a little more love by picking up a good moisturizer (and using it regularly!). Also take care of your hair by brushing it gently, avoiding tight hairstyles and keeping it conditioned to combat the cold.
Source: news.google.com