SOUTH BEND -- The bitter cold temperatures and strong winds made it nearly unbearable for people Sunday. The extremely cold weather can cause health problems for some people. That's why many decided to stay inside. But there were those who didn't have that option.

It's a scene that makes most people want to hide.

But Martin's employee Kayla Welsh doesn't have a choice. Collecting carts on a day like Sunday isn't exactly something she looks forward to.

“Absolutely freezing. It's so cold. My legs are cold. My face is cold," said Welsh.

Many people say the single digit temperatures, combined with high winds makes it feel even worse.

"It's bitter cold. It goes down to your bones,” said shopper Walt Smith.

"If it gets colder than this we're going to be in trouble," said shopper Judy Marrow.

And trouble is exactly what people can wind up in if they stay outside for too long. Doctors say the elderly should be especially careful.

"They lose their temperature much quicker. Partly because some of the medication they're on increases their risk for losing heat," said Dr. Tom Sweeney.

Doctors strongly recommend staying inside on extremely cold days. They say, for some people, something as simple as breathing in the cold air can be potentially life threatening.

“We've had cold induced asthma today. Someone was trying to work outside and all the sudden he couldn't breathe because his chest just had asthma related to the cold weather," explained Dr. Sweeney.

Many of those who do have to head outside are making it a quick trip.

"I'll probably have to come out a few more times, but right now I'm going in pretty soon," said Welsh.

Doctors say putting a hat on is most important because you lose a lot of heat from your head. They also recommend using mittens instead of gloves. Your fingers will stay warmer if they're closer together.