With colder weather on the horizon, Interior Health is warning of the dangers it poses to those experiencing homelessness and struggling with addiction.
According to a report by the BC Coroners Service, January recorded the highest number of toxic drug-related deaths compared to other months so far this year.
Interior Health Chief Medical Officer Karin Goodison says using substances, including alcohol, in cold weather can increase a person’s risk of cold-related injury.
“The mechanisms aren’t exactly understood, but we know for certain that drugs often reduce our ability to be aware of our environment. We also know that down (fentanyl) will decrease our breathing rate, and cold weather reduces our circulation. So the combination of these factors decreases blood flow to our heart and reduces oxygen delivery to the rest of our body.”
Medications and other changes in the body can also increase risk by impairing a person’s ability to sense or respond to symptoms of hypothermia or frostbite.
“It all can affect the way our body responds to the cold, and cold weather affects the way our body responds to those drugs. So it’s a two-way street. Cold on its own can cause damage, but cold plus drugs creates a higher risk of cold-related injuries or drug overdose.”
Symptoms to look out for
Recognizing the symptoms of an overdose or cold related injury is critical, with Goodison saying it’s especially important for community members to be on alert when it’s cold outside.
“If you find someone who doesn’t appear responsive, you can call out to them and gently shake them to see if they become alert. If you’re comfortable doing more of an assessment, we encourage you to give them a firmer shake, rub, or squeeze their shoulder to see if they wake up.”
The public should also watch for signs of trouble breathing, which could sound like gurgling or loud snoring.
A person experiencing an overdose or cold-related injury may also have blue lips and hands. If you see someone sleeping in a location where frostbite or freezing is likely, Goodison asks that you help them move to a warmer space.
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