Ask the Doctor: Winter Health

The holidays are a time to celebrate, give thanks, and reflect. They are also a time to pay special attention to your health. Our guest today -- Craig Collison, MD -- says, "Give the gift of health and safety to yourself and others by following some very common sense holiday tips."

What is "winter skin?"

• Due to the extremes in temperature--very cold outside and warm and dry inside-- our skin takes a beating. 
• Our heating systems indoor tend to dry things out.
• Humidifiers help--especially in the bedroom.

What can parents do to protect their children's skin?

• Moisturize the skin.  Dermatologists tend to recommend the ointment type, which is rather greasy.  But, putting this on before bed presents less of a problem.  Always apply after bathing to retain moisture, "3 minute rule."
• Keep hydrated--eating water-rich foods, like fruits and veggies and also drinking water helps with winter dryness.

Kids often get sick around the holidays--is there anything to prevent that?

• Some precautions help:  Hand washing is huge.  And, the best kind is the alcohol hand sanitizers with moisturizer.
• Also, teach children to cough and sneeze, "into their sleeve."
• And, of course, use tissues too!
• Remind children to not touch their eyes, nose and mouth!
• Avoid going to people's homes where there is illness--especially those little babies less than 2 months old.
• Even though there is lots of excitement and visiting, keep some good routines that encourage a slow and relaxed mealtime and a nighttime ritual that encourages a good night's sleep.
• And, exercise and fresh air are actually good, for you, so get outside and play.

For more information, visit Mount Nittany Health's website.