Health Experts Advise Heart Patients to Steer Clear of Extreme Weather
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Synopsis
On Jan 15, health experts warned individuals with cardiovascular issues to avoid extreme weather conditions. They highlighted the risks associated with temperature fluctuations and the importance of being aware of one's cardiovascular health before exposure to harsh weather.
Key Takeaways
- Avoid extreme cold or heat to protect cardiovascular health.
- Monitor blood pressure and other health factors before weather exposure.
- Winter increases the risk of heart attacks due to temperature changes.
- Warm up before outdoor activities to reduce heart strain.
- Be cautious of temperature fluctuations, especially during events like Maha Kumbh.
New Delhi, Jan 15 (NationPress) Individuals suffering from cardiovascular diseases and those with associated risk factors should steer clear of extreme weather conditions, emphasized health professionals on Wednesday.
"Being subjected to extreme cold or heat without proper acclimatization can disrupt cardiovascular function. Therefore, patients at risk for cardiovascular diseases need to avoid such extreme weather conditions," stated Harshal R Salve, Additional Professor at the Centre for Community Medicine at AIIMS, New Delhi, during an interview with IANS.
He also urged individuals to be "mindful of their cardiovascular health, including blood pressure, deep vein thrombosis, and uncontrolled diabetes status before engaging in extreme weather activities."
Cardiologist Ashwani Mehta, from a local hospital, noted that many individuals experience heart attacks during the winter months.
This is primarily due to temperature fluctuations that can elevate blood pressure levels.
"Such fluctuations can intensify the sympathetic response to changing blood pressure, resulting in elevated BP and heart rate; it can also cause arteries to constrict," he added.
Numerous studies indicate that platelet aggregation and the propensity to form clots in the arteries increase during winter, potentially leading to a higher incidence of heart attacks during this season.
Exposure to harsh cold can negatively impact the heart, brain, and other crucial organs. It is essential to keep the body warm to mitigate blood vessel constriction, thereby reducing stress on the heart.
Sudden exposure to frigid temperatures can impose strain on the heart, resulting in angina or heart attacks. It is recommended to warm up before going outdoors and to avoid engaging in strenuous activities immediately after stepping outside.
Mehta also advised devotees attending the Maha Kumbh to be cautious of significant temperature fluctuations.
Despite the biting cold, over 3.5 crore devotees participated in the holy dip at Sangam during the first Amrit Snan on Makar Sankranti on Tuesday.
The Maha Kumbh 2025 is taking place after 12 years, attracting over 450 million devotees globally. This grand event will continue until February 26.
