Oklahoma health experts address dangers ahead of arctic blast

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — The arctic blast setting in across Oklahoma is bringing not just freezing temperatures, but also serious health risks.

Doctors say ice and snow increase the risk of falls, particularly for the elderly, and with temperatures feeling well below zero, doctors warn that frostbite and hypothermia are real concerns.

"Typically hypothermia occurs when your body temperature drops below 95 degrees and so one of the best things you can do to protect against that is to stay inside," said Dr. Hieu Nguyen, Norman Regional Health System.

If you do have to go outside in the elements, be prepared.

"Wear lots of layers and make sure you can go inside and escape from the cold if you can, if you can't protect the extremities, so fingers, toes, wear extra socks, insulated shoes or boots, gloves," said Dr. Nguyen.

If you think you have frostbite and it's in the early stages you can treat it yourself.

"You can try soaking it in warm water and just keep it warm and try to keep it that way, if it's severe where you're having the risk of tissue damage, I think the ER is the best choice because sometimes those wounds can develop into something, things that are more serious, like necrosis," said Dr. Nguyen.

However, if you are cold and stop shivering, Dr. Nguyen says that's a concern.

"That means that you're at a point where hypothermia has kicked in and it might be serious," said Dr. Nguyen.

This time of year also brings a surge in flu and other upper respiratory illnesses.

"There's more data coming out that keeping your mucous membranes warm will actually reduce the ability of certain viruses to infect you," said Dr. Nguyen.

Doctors say the extreme cold can also impact those with underlying health conditions.

Those with asthma and COPD are especially at risk, as cold air can trigger breathing difficulties.