How to stay healthy, protect yourself from prolonged cold exposures: VDH

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- As Central Virginia continues to see extremely cold temperatures following a snow and ice storm, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is urging residents to protect themselves from prolonged exposures to the cold.

In a press release shared Wednesday, Jan. 28 by VDH's Chickahominy Health District -- which serves the counties of Charles City, Goochland, Hanover and New Kent -- officials warned of increased risks for various health issues such as frostbite and hypothermia.

“With the bitter cold weather predicted to continue for the next several days, we all need to take special precautions to protect ourselves,” said Dr. Tom Franck, Director of the Chickahominy Health District. “When exposed to cold temperatures for too long, we can suffer cold-weather related health problems such as frostbite and hypothermia.”

According to VDH, frostbite can cause a loss of feeling and color in affected areas, such as the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers or toes, and can permanently damage the body.

"The person is often unaware of frostbite until someone else points it out because the frozen tissues are numb. If you suspect symptoms of frostbite, seek medical care," health officials wrote in a release.

Another major concern for VDH officials is hypothermia -- a condition that occurrs when the body loses heat faster than it can be produced. Symptoms may include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech or drowsiness.

"If you notice signs of hypothermia, take a body temperature," officials wrote in a release. "A temperature below 95 degrees is a medical emergency, and you should seek medical attention immediately."

Virginia sees spike in hypothermia, cold exposure cases amid winter storm

Health officials urge Virginians to take the following steps to help prevent frostbite, hypothermia and other potential injuries:

• Keep warm:
  • Limit your exposure to the cold outdoors and stay indoors when possible. · Bring your pets indoors and ensure they have water.
  • Eating healthy meals will help to keep your body temperature warm.
  • Stay hydrated even in cold weather to prevent hypothermia. Avoid alcohol and caffeine. They cause your body to lose heat faster. Drink warm beverages or broth.
  • Keep extra blankets, sleeping bags, and warm winter coats on hand for use in cold rooms.
  • Check on neighbors, friends, and family. · For a list of warming centers in your area, call 2-1-1 or click here.
• If you must go outside:
  • Dress warmly with cold weather appropriate clothing like gloves/mittens, hats, scarves and snow boots. Dress in several layers of loose-fitting clothing.
  • Wear proper footwear for traction. Take slow, short steps.
  • Be aware of the wind chill factor. Wind can cause accelerated loss of body heat.
  • Avoid getting wet. If you get wet, change out of wet clothes as soon as possible to prevent hypothermia.
  • Take frequent breaks if shoveling snow or working outdoors.
  • Stay home and avoid travel if the roads are dangerous.
• If you must drive:
  • First, check the road conditions and plan your route accordingly.
  • Let someone know your destination and when you expect to arrive, and ask them to notify authorities if you are late.
  • Always carry extra warm clothing and blankets with you. Don't rely on a car to provide enough heat.
  • Allow extra travel time and follow these tips from the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT).