Three Most Common Reasons For a Wintertime Emergency Room Visit

The winter months are often filled with fun activities, from family gatherings, outings with friends and loved ones to outdoor adventures snowboarding, skiing and sledding in the mountains.

However, wintertime also brings with it preventable injuries and illnesses that could land you in the emergency room.

We asked EvergreenHealth's Executive Medical Director of Emergency & Urgent Care Services Kevin Hanson, MD, what the most common reasons are for wintertime visits to the emergency department and how to prevent them:

Flu, RSV and Other Respiratory Illnesses

Respiratory illnesses often spread much more easily during the winter season, including influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), COVID-19 and even pneumonia. It isn't because of the colder weather, but because we often spend much more time indoors near others than during the summer months.

Vaccinations, especially for the flu and COVID-19, continue to be the most effective way to prevent respiratory illness, even late into the winter season, but here are some further steps you can take:

1. Wash Your Hands: Washing your hands is a simple yet effective way to help prevent catching diseases. When washing your hands isn't an option, hand sanitizer is a great backup option. Additionally, you should avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth as much as possible so that germs on your hands have a harder time entering your system.
2. Avoid Close Contact & Stay Home: Staying away from anyone who is or may be sick, even in the household, can greatly reduce your chances of becoming ill. You can also do others a kindness by simply staying home when you feel sick to ensure you're not spreading disease.
3. Cover Your Mouth & Nose: Everyone should develop the habit of coughing and sneezing into the inside of your elbow. Covering your mouth and nose helps trap water droplets that could carry the virus into the air and onto surfaces and other people.

Winter-Related Trauma & Sports Injuries

Physical trauma related to colder temperatures and snowy sports activities is another common reason you may require emergency medical attention.

With the amount of rain and mist we experience in the Pacific Northwest, even a thin layer of moisture can freeze and make your path slippery. To avoid falling, make sure you are mindful of how you walk, use handrails whenever available and shorten your steps to help you keep your balance.

Whether you are hitting the slopes or trying to keep up with your cycling or running routine, the winter months present unique challenges for our bodies. Here are some ways to prevent sports-related injuries:

• Condition Your Body: It's best to gradually work your way into any sports or activities you might be trying for the first time during the winter. If you're starting out skiing or snowboarding, try the bunny slopes first. If you're getting back into running, start at a slow pace and a short distance.
• Properly Warm Up: No matter what season it is, helping your body prepare for exercise is essential. This is a key to preventing injuries and helping your muscles recover.
• Don't Overdo It: Similar to conditioning your body, avoid overtraining as this strains not only your muscles but also your tendons and ligaments. Always give your body plenty of time to recover and avoid pushing through any serious aches and pains.

Chest & Abdominal Pain

Year-round, chest and abdominal pain are among the top reasons for visits to the emergency department. Although it may be difficult to squeeze it in around travel, school and other commitments, you should continue seeing your primary care provider for regular checkups as well as any other medical appointments.

Especially if you are at risk for heart conditions, digestive issues or need to be monitored for medications, staying on top of your health gives you the confidence you need to engage in other activities.