Cold Wave Alert: Winter Increases Risk of Infections, Hypertension, and Heart Problems, Doctors Warn

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sudden drop in temperature has triggered worry among experts, as they fear the cold wave can be detrimental to your health, especially if you have existing conditions. Doctors are urging people to take extra precautions as cold weather raises the risk of seasonal infections, worsening hypertension, and triggering serious heart complications if left unmanaged.

How does cold weather harm you?

Low temperature places a lot of additional stress on your body, as when you get exposed to the cold, blood vessels constrict to conserve heat - a natural response known as vasoconstriction. While this helps maintain core body temperature, it also causes blood pressure to rise. For those living with hypertension or high blood pressure levels, this sudden increase significantly elevates the risk of deadly heart attacks and strokes. Doctors explain that winter months often see a spike in cardiovascular emergencies. Cold air thickens the blood slightly and makes the heart work harder to pump it through narrowed vessels. This can be dangerous for patients with heart disease, high blood pressure, or a history of cardiac events. Sudden exposure to cold, such as early morning walks without proper clothing, can further increase the risk.

Cold weather spikes infection risk

In addition to heart-related issues, cold waves also heighten susceptibility to infections. Lower temperatures and reduced humidity allow viruses to survive longer in the air, making respiratory infections more common. People tend to stay indoors during winter, increasing close contact and the likelihood of spreading illnesses such as influenza, common cold, bronchitis, and pneumonia. Doctors say individuals with chronic conditions are particularly vulnerable. Those with diabetes, hypertension, asthma, and heart ailments may experience worsening symptoms during cold spells. Poor circulation, weakened immunity, and delayed detection of symptoms often contribute to complications. Another concern during winter is reduced physical activity. Cold weather discourages outdoor exercise, leading to weight gain, higher cholesterol levels, and poor blood sugar control, all of which can aggravate hypertension and heart disease. Additionally, people tend to consume heavier, salt-rich comfort foods during winter, further pushing blood pressure levels upward.

Ways to protect yourself

Medical experts recommend several preventive steps to stay safe during a cold wave, a few of which include:

• Wearing warm layers, especially covering your head, hands, and feet, prevents sudden heat loss.
• Make sure to maintain indoor warmth, and avoiding prolonged exposure to cold air is crucial.
• Monitoring blood pressure regularly during winter is essential for people with hypertension. Do not skip medications and consult a healthcare provider if readings fluctuate.
• Stay hydrated, even when thirst is less noticeable, as it supports circulation and overall health.
• Maintaining good hygiene, washing hands frequently, and avoiding crowded places during peak illness seasons can help. Vaccinations for flu and pneumonia are strongly recommended for older adults and those with chronic illnesses.
• It is important to follow a balanced diet and do light indoor exercise with simple activities like stretching, yoga, or brisk walking indoors that maintain heart health and circulation during cold months.