Taiwan is preparing for record cold temperatures this weekend which may present health risks, especially for the elderly.
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This Christmas holiday weekend may be one of the coldest on record for Taiwan. While that may lend itself to the Christmas spirit, drastic changes in temperature may be dangerous to your health, say medical experts in Taiwan. In particular, doctors are concerned about rapid temperature changes when moving from outdoors to indoors.
Many people in Taiwan wear heavy outdoor coats in the winter, but take them off when returning home. Because most homes in Taiwan do not have heaters, indoor temperatures are quite low, so removing your coat can cause a rapid change in body temperature. According to cardiovascular surgeon Yuan Mingqi ( 袁明琦),rapid temperature changes of five degrees celsius or more raise the risk of stroke and heart attack. He warns that excessive oxygen intake at low temperatures can cause unconsciousness or even death due to a condition known as cerebral apoplexy. The risks are especially high for elderly people on prescription medications.
Taiwanese doctors recommend keeping the entire body warm, not just the upper or lower body, maintaining a regular sleeping schedule, and drinking plenty of water. Following these guidelines will help make sure you have a safe and comfortable Christmas.