Top 3 Reasons for Emergency Room Visits During Winter

Winter is a season of cozy sweaters, holiday cheer, and the occasional snow day. Unfortunately, it’s also a time when emergency room visits tend to spike. Knowing the most common reasons for these visits can help you and your family stay safe while enjoying all that winter has to offer.

1. Respiratory Infections

When the temperatures drop, respiratory illnesses like the flu, pneumonia, and bronchitis become much more common. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flu season peaks between December and February, leading to millions of cases each year. While many people recover at home, some cases can escalate quickly, especially for vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions.

Symptoms of respiratory infections can range from mild congestion to severe shortness of breath and high fever. For example, pneumonia, which inflames the air sacs in the lungs, may cause chest pain, difficulty breathing, and fatigue. In severe cases, these symptoms require immediate medical attention.

If you or a loved one experiences labored breathing, dehydration, or persistent fever despite home treatments, it’s time to head to the ER. Early intervention can prevent complications and help ensure a faster recovery.

Take simple preventive steps to lower your risk of getting sick. Wash your hands often, disinfect high-touch surfaces, and avoid close contact with sick individuals. The CDC also recommends flu vaccines, which are shown to reduce the risk of severe illness by up to 60%.

2. Slips and Falls

Icy sidewalks and slippery driveways are some of the biggest culprits of winter injuries. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), falls are the leading cause of nonfatal injuries in the United States, and winter conditions only make them more frequent. Each year, emergency rooms treat over 1 million injuries from falls.

The risks are especially high for older adults. Even a seemingly minor fall can lead to fractures, sprains, or head injuries, which can take weeks or months to heal. For seniors, broken hips and wrist fractures are particularly common, often requiring extensive medical care and physical therapy.

Preventing falls starts with proper preparation. Wear shoes or boots with good traction, sprinkle salt or sand on icy walkways, and take small, careful steps when walking outdoors. If you’re shoveling snow, take your time and watch your footing. 

Despite best efforts, accidents still happen. Knowing when to seek emergency care is essential. For injuries that result in severe pain, swelling, or difficulty moving a limb, a trip to the ER ensures you get the right diagnosis and treatment. Head injuries should always be taken seriously, especially if symptoms like dizziness, confusion, or nausea appear afterward. These could signal a concussion or other complications that require immediate attention.

3. Heart Issues

Winter weather places extra strain on the heart, making it a particularly dangerous season for those with cardiovascular conditions. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), heart attacks are more common during colder months, with the highest number of cases reported in December and January.

Why does this happen? Cold weather causes blood vessels to constrict, raising blood pressure and forcing the heart to work harder. At the same time, activities like shoveling snow or walking in frigid conditions can further stress the cardiovascular system. For people with pre-existing conditions such as high blood pressure or heart disease, this combination can trigger a heart attack.

Heart attack symptoms aren’t always obvious. While chest pain is the most well-known sign, others include shortness of breath, nausea, cold sweats, and discomfort in the arms, back, or jaw. Women, in particular, may experience more subtle symptoms, such as fatigue or lightheadedness. If you or someone else experiences these warning signs, call 911 or get to the nearest ER right away.

Taking care of your heart during winter involves a mix of preparation and common sense. Dress warmly when going outdoors, and avoid overexerting yourself with tasks like snow shoveling. If you have a heart condition, talk to your doctor about managing your health during the colder months. Medications, routine check-ups, and knowing your limits can help reduce risks.

Winter Safety Tips

While respiratory infections, falls, and heart issues are the top reasons for winter ER visits, other common concerns include frostbite, hypothermia, and accidents caused by poor driving conditions. Staying safe this season doesn’t have to be complicated – small steps can make a big difference.

• Stay warm and dry – Wear layers to trap heat, and choose materials like wool or fleece for added warmth. Always cover extremities like fingers, toes, and ears, which are most prone to frostbite.
• Keep walkways clear – Shovel snow quickly and use salt or sand to prevent ice buildup.
• Drive carefully – Plan for potential delays; leave early to ensure you arrive safely. Keep an emergency kit in your car. Items like blankets, flashlights, and bottled water can be lifesavers if you get stranded.
• Check on loved ones – Older adults and neighbors living alone may need help preparing for winter weather. A quick check-in can go a long way in ensuring their safety.

When to Seek Emergency Care

Knowing when to go to the ER is important for getting the right care at the right time. Respiratory infections that don’t improve, severe injuries from falls, or any signs of a heart attack should never be ignored. Delaying care can lead to complications, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.

At Physicians Premier, we’re here to help when you need us most. Our experienced team is equipped to handle winter-related emergency room visits with speed and compassion. Visit Physicians Premier to find a location near you and learn more about our services.

Sources:

“Flu Season,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/season.html
“Benefits of the Flu Vaccine,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://www.cdc.gov/flu-vaccines-work/benefits/index.html
“Make Fall Safety a Top Priority,” National Safety Council, https://www.nsc.org/workplace/safety-topics/slips-trips-and-falls/slips-trips-and-falls-home
“Heart attack deaths spike during the winter holidays,” American Heart Association, https://newsroom.heart.org/news/heart-attack-deaths-spike-during-the-winter-holidays
“Can you have a heart attack and not know it?” Harvard Health, https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/can-you-have-a-heart-attack-and-not-know-it