Aspirus | Aspire | Winter 2019

aspirus.org 3 How to shovel snow safely DRESS FOR THE JOB. Wear light, layered clothing; a hat; and slip-resistant shoes or boots. SHOVEL EARLY AND OFTEN. Don’t give the snow a chance to pack up and get heavy. PUSH THE SNOW. If youmust lift, lift with your legs, not your back, and only lift small amounts. AVOID TWISTING YOUR BACK. Never throw snow over your shoulder or to the side. PACE YOURSELF. Take breaks often, and drink plenty of fluids. STOP IF YOU FEEL PAIN. Quit right away if you feel dizzy or experience tightness in your chest. HAVE A HISTORY OF HEART DISEASE? Get your doctor’s OK before shoveling. HIRE SOMEONE. Consider letting someone else shovel. Sources: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons; National Safety Council easy does it WINTERWEATHER can leave your skin worse for wear. And since you have no choice but to wear the skin you’re in, that’s nothing to ignore. Fortunately, there are simple ways to cope with the season’s dry air and the itchiness it can bring, said Sarah Hostetler, MD, dermatologist at Aspirus Dermatology Clinic. Dress for success. Wear gloves to protect your hands, and dress in layers, with loose-fitting cotton clothes next to your skin. Sweating and overheating may irritate your skin, but layering clothing allows you to regulate your temperature by removing garments as needed. “If you have heart disease or other circulation problems, you’re more likely to get frostbite,” Dr. Hostetler said. “Make sure you bundle up before braving the cold. And if your skin reddens or starts hurting, head indoors right away.” Wash wisely. Hot water and soap can cause your skin to lose natural oils. It’s best to use warm water with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser and to pat your skin dry with a soft towel—don’t rub it. Then apply a heavy layer of fragrance-free ointment or cream. Do this within a few minutes of finishing your bath or shower, while your skin is still damp. It helps the skin retain moisture it absorbs during bathing. Be sure to limit your bath or shower to no more than 10 minutes. Beyond that time frame, your skin may lose more moisture than it takes in. Slather on the sunscreen. Apply a water-resistant, broad- spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before going outdoors. Put it on your face, hands and any other part of your skin that may be exposed. Even in winter, the sun can take a toll on your skin. Those with sensitive skin or allergies should look for sunscreen without fragrance, PABA, parabens or oxybenzone. Plug in a humidifier. A humidifier will add moisture to the air. If you can check your home heating system, find out if you have a humidifier on the system—and whether it’s working. SAVEYOURSKIN Talk to your provider about any skin concerns you may have. To find a primary care provider at an Aspirus location near you, go online to aspirus.org or call the Aspirus Customer Contact Center at 800.847.4707 . Pain or pressure in your chest while shoveling may signal a heart attack. Call 911. WINTER SKIN Weather the wear and tear Sarah Hostetler, MD