Protect Your Stoma During the Cold Weather

As many parts across eastern and central USA have experienced record high temperature, winter has decreased the temperature considerably. The fact is that winter might still not be over. The temperatures will continue to remain in the low 30s which is why it is crucial to protect your stoma during the cold weather. Abdominal incisions put your stoma at a higher risk of abdominal muscle injuries. This is why it is crucial to protect it against injuries. This post shares vital information that will allow you to take care of yourself.

1. Seek Physician’s Advice

The first thing that you need to do until the cold weather persists is seek your physician’s advice. Consult with the medical provider to find out if you are fit to shovel snow. The physician will evaluate if there are any weight restrictions or limits that you need to be aware of.

2. Get Proper Support

When shoveling snow, you should consider putting on an abdominal binder. It provides your abdomen with much-needed support after the surgery. It will also enable you to carry out everyday activities like walking and sitting up during the healing phase. An abdominal binder is just what you need for extra support.

3. Dress Appropriately

Winter should never be taken lightly. It is crucial that you dress appropriately. Layer your clothing in order to remain warm. Now, if you start to feel warm and sweat, you can take off a layer of clothing. It will prevent sweating in the cold air. Although sweating might be good during the summer, it is not the same for winter. Put on some boots that are water-proof and keep you warm and ensure that you do not slip.

4. Use the Right Technique

Next, you must use the right technique. It is a lot easier to push the shovel on your back than lifting and throwing it. Begin from one side and move along from there. Instead of throwing the snow aside, you should dump it away from the walkway or driveway. Hold the shovel properly to avoid misbalance and lift the snow properly.

5. Use an Odor Eliminator

To keep the smell in check, you need to use an odor eliminator such as the Na’Scent Odor Eliminator. It works wonders in eliminating odor.

6. Remain Hydrated

Once the weather starts to get cold, many people make the mistake of not drinking enough water. This is something that should be avoided at all costs. Make sure to get the right amount of water to stay hydrated. It will help keep everything in order.

7. Take Your Time

There is no reason for you to hurry up with everything. Take your time when shoveling. If you feel tired, you can sit down to relax. Take on the job once you feel better.

8. Be Smart

Finally, you need to be smart. We all have our limits. Do not try to push your limits and take care of yourself.

Conclusion

Whether the weather gets cold or not, you will find the tips mentioned above to be useful. They will help protect your stoma.