Low temperatures bring unexpected health surprises, some strange and others dangerous.
Here are six unexpected ways cold weather can affect our bodies:
Many men experience a strange phenomenon known as "winter penis," where they notice a temporary decrease in the size of their penis during cold weather. Doctors explain this phenomenon as a natural defense mechanism the body uses to conserve heat, whereby blood vessels in the extremities constrict to redirect blood flow to vital internal organs.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, frostbite typically affects the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, and toes. The National Health Service explains that this condition usually occurs at temperatures of -0.55°C or lower.
Initial symptoms include coldness and pain in the affected areas, followed by a "light bite" phase where the skin turns white and becomes numb. With continued exposure to cold, it progresses to superficial and then deep frostbite, which can cause damage to tendons, muscles, nerves, and bones.
Lower temperatures increase blood viscosity, raising the risk of blood clots. This explains why heart attacks and strokes tend to increase in the days following cold spells.
Health experts advise keeping the home temperature at least 18 degrees Celsius, with regular movement and wiggling of the fingers and feet to prevent blood clots.
Experts warn that breathing cold air increases the risk of chest infections. Asthma + Lung UK indicates that cold air causes the airways to narrow, increases mucus production, and makes breathing more difficult. It also irritates the respiratory tract and exacerbates symptoms such as wheezing and coughing.
Cold weather can affect the body's ability to fight infection, which explains the increased deaths from pneumonia and other infectious diseases after periods of extreme cold.
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, back pain can worsen with a drop in temperature and atmospheric pressure, as these changes affect joints affected by arthritis, making the joints more stiff and prone to injury.
Many people also notice an increase in joint pain in cold weather, as changes in atmospheric pressure and temperatures affect the joints, especially in those with arthritis, making them more stiff and prone to injury.
Doctors advise keeping homes heated to at least 18 degrees Celsius, exercising regularly, and avoiding direct exposure to cold air, especially for people with pre-existing health conditions. They also emphasize the importance of paying attention to any unusual bodily changes during periods of severe cold.
