As snowfall blankets Kashmir and temperatures drop below zero, the risk of heart attacks and strokes becomes a growing concern. Experts from the Department of Cardiology, Government Medical College (GMC), Srinagar, have issued an advisory urging residents, especially those at high risk, to take extra precautions to protect their cardiovascular health.

The advisory issued by the Head of the Department of Cardiology at GMC Srinagar highlights that heart-related emergencies, such as myocardial infarction (MI), is one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide. In Kashmir, where 30% of adults suffer from high blood pressure – a major risk factor for heart attacks and strokes – the situation is particularly worrying.

Why does cold weather increase heart risk?

Cold temperatures pose a direct threat to heart health. When exposed to cold, blood vessels constrict, which increases blood pressure and puts extra strain on the heart. This vasoconstriction, combined with higher rates of respiratory infections during winter, can substantially increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

The statistics underline the seriousness of the issue:

• Globally, 10 million people experience disability and 500,000 deaths per year due to low temperatures.
• Air pollution, which becomes worse during colder months, further increases cardiovascular risks by contributing to systemic inflammation and impaired heart function.

high risk groups

People who are especially vulnerable to cardiovascular complications during the winter include:

• elderly person
• People with high blood pressure, diabetes or obesity
• individuals with a history of smoking or heart disease

Dr. Imran Hafeez, senior cardiologist at SKIMS, explains that exposure to cold causes vasoconstriction, which increases blood pressure significantly and, as a result, increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Lifestyle and dietary habits impact heart health

Dr Irfan Ahmed Bhat, cardiologist, SMHS Hospital, highlighted the unique lifestyle and dietary habits of the region that lead to high blood pressure during winter.

“Increased consumption of salt, especially in traditional nun tea, and reliance on processed foods contribute to high blood pressure,” says Dr. Bhatt. Additionally, over-the-counter cold medications, which often contain decongestants, can further increase blood pressure.

Dr. Bhatt also points to the phenomenon of “winter hypertension,” where individuals whose blood pressure is usually normal during the summer have increased blood pressure during the colder months.

Tips to prevent heart attacks and strokes during winter

The GMC’s advice outlines practical measures to reduce cardiovascular risks during the winter months:

1. Stay Warm:

• Maintain comfortable indoor temperature with adequate heating.
• Wear warm clothing, including a hat, gloves, and insulated shoes when going out.

Prevent respiratory infections:

• Avoid unnecessary exposure to cold.
• Consider influenza vaccination to reduce the risk of viral infections putting stress on the cardiovascular system.

Modify Outdoor Activities:

• Avoid strenuous activities such as jogging or shoveling snow during extreme cold.
• Prefer to stay indoors and stay warm.

Monitor blood pressure:

• Check blood pressure regularly at home, especially for people with a history of high blood pressure.
• Follow prescribed medications to manage seasonal increase in blood pressure.

Additional Ways to Keep Your Heart Healthy and Reduce stroke risk

1. Adopt a heart-healthy diet:

• Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats.
• Limit sodium intake, especially in processed foods and traditional salty drinks like nun tea.

Be active safely:

• Engage in light indoor exercise like yoga or stretching to maintain fitness without over-exposure to cold.

Manage Stress:

• Practice mindfulness techniques like meditation or deep breathing to reduce stress, a known contributor to heart disease.

Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol:

• Smoking constricts blood vessels, while excessive alcohol consumption can cause irregular heart rhythms.

Stay hydrated:

• Drink plenty of water to maintain optimal blood viscosity and prevent dehydration, which can put a strain on the heart.

Get regular checkups:

• Schedule periodic appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor heart health and address any concerns quickly.

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