Cold weather health protection

Overview

Cold weather health protection is a set of simple steps you can take to stay safe and healthy when temperatures drop. It is about preventing common cold-weather health problems, such as hypothermia (when your body gets too cold) and frostbite (damage to skin from freezing temperatures), as well as managing long-term conditions that may get worse in the cold.

Yes, cold weather affects everyone to some degree, but serious health problems are more common among older adults, people with chronic illnesses, and very young children.

It can affect anyone, but those most at risk include people aged 65 and over, babies and young children, people with heart or lung conditions, people with dementia, and those who spend a lot of time outdoors or in poorly heated homes.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Shivering and feeling unusually cold
• Tiredness, confusion, or being unusually quiet
• Cold, pale, or numb skin on hands, feet, or face
• Slurred speech or slow movements

Symptoms in children

• Shivering that does not stop, or no shivering at all
• Sleepiness or being difficult to wake
• Bright red, cold skin (early signs of hypothermia)
• Fussy or irritable behavior

Symptoms in older adults

• Confusion or memory problems that seem worse than usual
• Weakness or unsteadiness on their feet
• Not wanting to eat or drink
• Slower breathing or pulse than normal

Causes

Main causes

• Exposure to very cold temperatures without enough clothing or shelter
• Getting wet in cold weather
• Staying in a home that is too cold (below 18°C / 64°F)
• Cold air making existing health conditions like asthma or heart disease worse

Risk factors

• Being aged 65 or older
• Being very young (under 5)
• Having heart, lung, or kidney disease
• Living alone or not being able to heat your home
• Taking certain medicines that affect how your body responds to cold
• Alcohol or drug use

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you or someone else has symptoms of hypothermia (confusion, shivering that stops, sluggishness)
• If you have chest pain, difficulty breathing, or heart palpitations in cold weather
• If you suspect frostbite (skin that is hard, white, and numb)

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have a chronic condition and notice your symptoms are getting worse in the cold
• If you are unsure whether your home is warm enough for your health needs
• If you need advice on staying active and safe in cold weather

Diagnosis

A healthcare provider will check your temperature, ask about your symptoms and exposure to cold, and perform a physical exam to look for signs of cold-related problems.

Tests that may be done

• Body temperature measurement
• Heart rate and blood pressure check
• Blood tests to check for infection or other issues
• Frostbite assessment (checking skin colour, sensation, and warmth)

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor or nurse will likely ask when you were in the cold, what you were wearing, and any other symptoms. They may measure your temperature with a special thermometer. You will be warmed up gradually – never with hot water or direct heat – to avoid burns or heart strain.

Treatment

Treatment depends on how severe the cold exposure is. For mild cases, getting to a warm place and warming up slowly is all that is needed. More serious problems like hypothermia or frostbite require medical care to raise body temperature safely and prevent damage.

Self-care at home

• Move to a warm room or shelter as soon as possible
• Remove any wet clothing and wrap up in warm, dry blankets
• Drink warm (not hot) drinks – avoid alcohol, as it can make heat loss worse
• Keep active gently, but do not do strenuous exercise that might strain your heart
• Check on older neighbours or relatives regularly

Medical treatments

For hypothermia, doctors use passive external rewarming (warm blankets and a warm room) and sometimes warmed intravenous fluids or heated oxygen. Frostbite treatment includes rewarming in warm water, pain relief, and careful care of the affected skin. In severe cases, medications may be given to improve blood flow or prevent infection.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for cold-weather problems. In very severe frostbite with dead tissue, doctors may need to remove the damaged tissue (debridement) or amputate a finger or toe if it cannot recover.

Living with this condition

If you live in a cold climate, planning ahead helps. Keep your home at least 18°C (64°F) in winter. Dress in layers of loose clothing, and wear a hat, scarf, and gloves when going outside. If the weather is very cold, try to stay indoors when possible.

Lifestyle tips

• Walk indoors (like around a shopping centre or your home) to stay active
• Eat warm meals and drink warm fluids regularly
• Keep a supply of basic medicines and food at home in case of icy weather
• Make sure your heating system is working before winter starts

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet with enough calories helps your body stay warm. Gentle indoor exercise, such as walking in place or using stairs, can keep your blood flowing and raise your core temperature slightly. Avoid extreme exercise outdoors when it is very cold.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Cold weather can make you feel more isolated, especially if you cannot go out. Loneliness and low mood are common in winter. Staying connected by phone or video calls, and having a regular daily routine can help. If you feel sad, anxious, or hopeless, talk to your doctor or a mental health support line.

Prevention

Yes, many health problems from cold weather can be prevented by keeping warm, dressing appropriately, and looking out for those who are at higher risk. Following the simple steps in this article can make a big difference.

Vaccines

Staying up to date with your flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccines can help protect your lungs and immune system during cold months, as these infections are more common in winter.

Screening programmes

There is no specific screening test for cold weather risks, but if you have a long-term condition, attending your regular check-ups helps your doctor monitor you and give personal advice.

Complications

If left untreated

• Hypothermia can lead to heart failure, unconsciousness, and death
• Frostbite can cause permanent numbness, infection, or loss of fingers or toes
• Falls on ice can cause broken bones, head injuries, and a loss of independence
• Worsening of chronic conditions like asthma, COPD, or heart disease

Long-term outlook

Most people recover fully from mild cold-weather problems with simple home care. With prompt medical treatment, even moderate hypothermia and frostbite can often be treated successfully. By taking a few precautions and acting early, you can safely enjoy the winter season.

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