During cold weather, the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends indoor temperatures of at least 18°C or no lower than 21°C if residents are elderly or frail. This is because living in cold conditions can cause a range of health problems and complications.
Consistent cold temperatures can lead to drier air within the home, and overtime this will dry out the body’s natural mucus which helps to stop and clean virus particles. People living in these conditions would become more susceptible to colds and viruses.
In temperatures below 16°C, damp conditions and accompanying mould are more likely to develop. It is estimated that people living in some of the coldest houses are three times more likely to die from an illness caused by the cold.
Living in a cold home can increase the risk of developing cardiovascular problems too. Low temperatures lead to fluctuations in blood pressure and this unstable blood pressure can result in blood clotting or strokes.
There is also a greater risk of developing hypothermia in cold living conditions. Hypothermia is caused when a persons body temperature drops below 35ºC, and symptoms can include delirium, violent shivering and even unconsciousness.
Sleep can also be affected when living in a cold home. During the night the body will try to maintain a constant temperature but if the environment is too cold it could cause problems falling or staying asleep, and you may not feel well-rested when you wake up.
To avoid encountering the problems caused by living in a cold home it is essential to maintain correct heating oil levels. Remember to monitor your tank and order your next heating oil top up before you run out.
With AID Fuel Oils Group you can order online at any time by using our ‘Quick Quote and Order’ section on the homepage. Try it for yourself now by visiting https://www.aidfueloils.co.uk.
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AID Fuel Oils Group
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