Doctors revealed that the coldness that accompanies the onset of the winter season carries hidden health risks, especially for heart and vascular health, with high blood pressure being one of the most common problems during the cold months, increasing the risk of heart attacks or strokes.
According to Dr. Tushar Tayal, the co-director of internal medicine at CK Birla Hospital in Gurgaon, the cold weather directly affects the body, making controlling blood pressure a vital matter.
Why does blood pressure rise in winter?
Dr. Tayal explains to the site «only my health» that the drop in temperatures leads to the narrowing of the blood vessels (a process known as «vasoconstriction») to preserve body heat. This narrowing forces the heart to work harder to pump blood, which raises blood pressure.
He added: «There are also hormonal changes, such as increased adrenaline secretion, in addition to less physical activity, consumption of more salty foods, and seasonal stress. All these factors contribute to this rise. For patients with chronic high blood pressure, the cold increases the activity of the sympathetic nervous system, which speeds up the heart rate and puts an additional load on it, especially in the elderly or those with stiff arteries.»
Does winter generally threaten heart health?
Dr. Tayal points out that winter is associated with an increase in heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure, and high blood pressure, along with increased blood viscosity due to mild dehydration, lack of movement, and weight gain, contribute to these risks. He also emphasizes that the elderly and heart patients are more susceptible to this «seasonal pressure».
As for the best climates for patients with high blood pressure, Dr. Tayal prefers a moderate climate that is neither too hot nor too cold, as it maintains the relaxation of the blood vessels and reduces sudden fluctuations in pressure.
Tips for controlling blood pressure in winter
Dr. Tayal offers practical tips for maintaining controlled blood pressure during the cold:
Wear warm clothes that cover the head, ears, and hands to avoid sudden narrowing of the vessels.
Engage in physical activity daily, even if it is just a short walk inside or outside the home, to maintain the flexibility of the vessels.
Reduce high-salt foods such as canned soup, pickles, and fast food.
Drink adequate amounts of water, as dehydration increases blood viscosity and raises pressure.
Regularly measure your blood pressure, especially in the morning when it tends to be higher.
Avoid sudden exposure to cold after waking up or showering.
Adhere to prescribed medications without interruption, even on holidays.
