After the Storm: Staying Healthy When Snowed In

A massive snowstorm hit Washington D.C., Philadelphia, New York City, and other parts of the East Coast at the end of January, dropping three feet or more of snow in many areas. Metropolitan areas were all but paralyzed by the blizzard-like conditions. It was days before streets and sidewalks were properly shoveled and safe for drivers and pedestrians.

In situations such as this, it is usually advisable for people to wait out the storm in their homes, making sure they have proper supplies of food and water to make it through until the storm clears and city services are back up and running. Having a supply of water and food ahead of time, rather than hoping supermarkets don’t run out at the last minute, is usually a good idea.

But just because you are snowed in doesn’t mean you don’t need to pay attention to complications that might arise with any health issues you might have. A number of chronic conditions, including Deep Vein Thrombosis, blood clots, and heart disease can be made worse by failing to follow certain guidelines even when stuck at home. These guidelines include:

• Getting some exercise regularly, even if it’s just walking around the house, rather than staying in a chair or bed
• Not over-bundling to stay warm, which can cause a variety of complications with DVT and blood clots
• Having an emergency plan in place in case there is a crisis and you need emergency care

It is always better to plan ahead. Winter isn’t over, and there will be other serious snowstorms. Remembering to take your own health issues into account is key to not only surviving the storm, but making sure no lasting damage is done to your health.

If you or someone you love suffers from these health conditions, it can be difficult to stock up on items on your own, difficult to perform many once simple activities due to reduced mobility. If a doctor failed to make a prompt and proper diagnosis, these reductions in quality of life are probably even more severe. Please contact a qualified attorney who can help you hold the doctors to account, and who can help you afford the help you need to get through difficult times.