Some of us spend a while in the morning deciding what to wear. But if your thoughts are mostly about what’s stylish, you may be ignoring ways your clothing can affect your health. The guide below discusses certain items and the risks they pose so you can practice preventive care when planning your wardrobe.

Have These in Your Closet? Why You Should Reconsider

Tight Clothing

Skin-tight clothes restrict airflow to your skin and can cause irritation. This is especially true for fabrics like nylon, spandex, polyester, and wool. To let your skin breathe, opt for looser fabrics like cotton and linen. Additionally, while exercise should form part of your regular preventive care routine, change out of tighter workout clothes right away, since these materials can also attract bacteria and fungus. 

Flip Flops

Flip flops might be a summer staple but wear them sparingly. These warm-weather sandals can put you at risk for plantar fasciitis, heel pain, arch pain, and ankle sprains. This is because these shoes have little support, causing their owners to grip their toes with every step. 

Piercings

Piercings are a fun way to express one’s self, but be aware of the health risks. If you get a piercing from an unsterilized needle, you could be at risk for Hepatitis and HIV or a bacterial infection. Some people also experience an allergic reaction to the metal. 

Heavy Bags

Whether you are someone who carries a heavy backpack to work or slings a loaded purse over their shoulder, oversized bags can weigh you down. A heavy bag can cause muscle strain, slipped discs, spinal misalignment, and chronic back pain. To avoid these problems, carry as little as possible in them and talk to a doctor about preventive care measures to protect your spine and muscles. 

No matter what you wear, the team at Santiam Hospital will make your preventive care a priority. Located in the Mid-Willamette Valley area of Oregon, this health care facility has been serving local patients since 1953. They offer primary care, emergency services, a women’s health clinic, a surgery center, and more to meet your needs. To view a full list of their offerings, visit them online. Call (503) 769-2175 to make an appointment.