At this time of year, it’s not uncommon for many of us to feel more tired than usual - the circadian rhythms of our body are adjusting to shorter days and longer nights, and many of us are fighting off infectious diseases such as a cold or the flu. However, there is one infectious disease -mononucleosis (mono) - that can make you extraordinarily tired for several weeks.
Known informally as the “kissing disease” mono can be caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which is passed along via saliva, sharing a glass or utensil, coughing or sneezing. Most people consider mono to be very “catchy,” yet it’s not generally more contagious than the common cold.
In the heart of winter, we tend to “hibernate” - more sleep and food, less exercise and fresh air. This can lead to the “winter blues” - lethargy, lack of ambition and darker moods. However, Seasons Affective Disorder (SAD) may lead to increased sleepiness, fatigue, depression, and a general lack of ambition that goes beyond the “winter blues.” You may lose interest in your favorite activities, spend more time in bed, crave carbohydrates and gain weight. You may have trouble concentrating feel hopeless, and stop socializing.
If you notice marked changes in your sleep patterns and appetite, feel down for days, feel hopeless or suicidal, or are drinking alcohol as a source of comfort, see your doctor.
Otherwise, eat well, stay active, get outside and see people — despite the weather. Hibernating is for the bears.
Nearly 34 million Americans have cholesterol levels that can be detrimental to their health -leading to an increased risk of heart attacks, stroke, heart disease, erectile dysfunction, kidney failure, Alzheimer’s disease, liver cancer and liver cirrhosis. The good news is that research indicates American cholesterol levels have improved in the last 50 years due to increased awareness, cholesterol screenings and the use of statin medications.
That said, plenty of us are still in the dark about the cholesterol basics.
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I’m willing to bet the majority of you know someone who’s had the flu this year - it’s been a busy season and it’s only November. I’m often asked, “What can I do to keep myself healthy?” - and find that people are surprised by some of the basics they’ve overlooked.
We’ve all heard it before - to stay healthy you need to eat well, exercise, and get plenty of sleep. People get tired of hearing that - but these are the basic building blocks of keeping your immune system in top form. You need to fuel your body, cleanse your body with a good sweat and increased blood flow, and then give it the chance to recuperate. It really does make a difference.
Beyond that, common “mistakes” I’m seeing this year as people try to avoid the flu are as follows.
Every year I treat experienced outdoorsmen and women, skiers, snowmobilers and hunters in the ER for hypothermia. Most of them are not strangers to the hazards of Wisconsin winters, yet they consistently make one critical mistake - overestimating their body’s ability to fend off exposure to cold and wind.
To avoid hypothermia you have to protect yourself from wind, fatigue, dehydration and getting wet - be it falling in a stream or excessive sweating. One of the best preventative measures is simply dressing smart - with breathable, wicking layers. Wet or damp clothing increases heat loss - so it’s important to pace yourself to avoid excessive sweating. Also be sure to unzip or remove outer shells as you heat up, but be certain to put them back on as soon as you rest.
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