Health · Fitness & Nutrition · 2 hrs ago
Cold weather may strain the heart and raise stroke risk for some people
Neurologist Deep Das says cold weather can raise blood pressure and put extra strain on the cardiovascular system.
The concern is greatest for older adults and people with high blood pressure, diabetes or a history of heart disease.
Cold alone does not mean someone will have a stroke; reduced activity, diet changes and missed medication can also make blood pressure harder to manage.
Before exercising outdoors, Das advises dressing in layers, covering exposed skin and giving the body time to adjust to the cold.
People with high blood pressure should check it as advised and keep taking prescribed medicines, while people with other risk factors should attend regular check-ups.
Sudden balance, vision, face, arm or speech problems can signal a stroke, as can a severe headache or confusion.
Call emergency services immediately and note when symptoms began, even if they ease after a few minutes.
The guidance is to take practical precautions and seek medical help quickly if warning signs appear.
Cold temperatures can narrow blood vessels and raise blood pressure, potentially adding strain to the cardiovascular system.
Neurologist Dr Deep Das said older adults and people with existing stroke risk factors may be more vulnerable.
He said cold weather alone does not mean someone will have a stroke; health conditions and daily habits also matter.
Das advised people to dress warmly, adjust gradually to the cold and avoid suddenly starting strenuous outdoor exercise.
He urged people to take prescribed medication consistently and seek emergency help if stroke warning signs appear.
- Who
- People with high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease or other stroke risk factors may need extra care in winter.
- What
- Cold weather may raise blood pressure and strain the cardiovascular system, while precautions can help manage risk.
- When
- During cold weather, particularly on winter mornings.
- Where
- Not stated
- Why
- Cold temperatures can narrow blood vessels and raise blood pressure; reduced activity, dietary changes and irregular medication use can make blood pressure harder to manage.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Dr Das said cold temperatures can narrow blood vessels and raise blood pressure.
Das advised dressing in layers and allowing time to adjust to the cold before exercising.
Das advised noting when symptoms began and seeking emergency medical help.
- Expert
- Dr Deep Das, neurologist
- Outlet
- Hindustan Times
- Risk factors named
- High blood pressure, diabetes and a history of heart disease
- Stroke warning signs
- Balance, vision, face, arm and speech changes; call emergency services immediately
- Advice
- Continue prescribed medication and do not change doses without medical guidance
1 source
What people are saying
Cold temperatures cause blood vessels to narrow, which can raise blood pressure. Blood pressure also tends to run higher during winter in some people.
Reduced physical activity, changes in diet and irregular medication use can make blood pressure harder to manage during colder months.
Do not skip doses because you feel well or change them without medical guidance.
Do not wait for symptoms to settle, even if they disappear after a few minutes.