Experts warn of increased heart attack and angina risk during winter due to contracting veins and higher pollution. An AIIMS doctor advises monitoring BP, avoiding cold morning walks, dressing warmly, and staying hydrated to prevent complications.
Heart Attacks are one of the leading causes of death across the world. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), 19.8 million people died from Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) in 2022. Heart attacks can strike at any time of year, but during winter, experts warn that people should take extra care.
Winter Morning Precautions
Speaking with ANI, Dr. Rajiv Narang, Department of Cardiology, AIIMS Delhi, gave useful advice and said, "During winters, people should rise gradually from bed and sit for a while before standing up and avoid sudden movements to prevent BP drop and dizziness. Early mornings are high-risk; dress warmly and avoid exposure to cold."
Why Winter Elevates Heart Risks
He further explained about the increase in blood pressure during winters, "Certain heart disease risks increase during the winter. There is a risk of an increase in blood pressure because the veins contract during winter... People with high blood pressure or who take medication for it should regularly check their blood pressure... If their BP is more than 90/140, they should talk to their doctor about whether their medication needs to be changed."
"The risk of angina and a heart attack also increases during winter. People should not go out for a walk when it's too cold. Afternoons are good for a walk... Since pollution increases during the winter, it also increases the risk of heart disease," he said.
Key Preventive Measures to Follow
"Blood pressure and heart rate. People with hypertension should monitor their BP twice a week. Keep a BP machine at home, avoid morning walks; opt for afternoon walks instead, wear warm clothes when going out, take medications regularly, watch for angina symptoms (chest discomfort), limit salty foods and stay hydrated (water, tea, milk, soup)," he emphasised
Cardiovascular Diseases: A Global Perspective
According to the WHO, Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death globally, taking an estimated 17.9 million lives each year.
CVDs are a group of disorders of the heart and blood vessels and include coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, rheumatic heart disease and other conditions. More than four out of five CVD deaths are due to heart attacks and strokes, and one third of these deaths occur prematurely in people under 70 years of age. (ANI)
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