The Biz Reporter

Srinagar, Nov 29 – As temperatures plummet across the Kashmir Valley, medical experts are sounding the alarm about a critical health concern: the heightened risk of hypertension and cardiovascular complications during winter months.

Recent data from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) reveals a stark reality – one in three adults in Kashmir suffers from hypertension, a condition that becomes increasingly dangerous during the cold season.

The Cold Connection: How Winter Impacts Blood Pressure

Senior cardiologists are pointing to a direct physiological response triggered by cold weather. Dr. Imran Hafeez from Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) explains that cold exposure causes vasoconstriction – a narrowing of blood vessels that dramatically increases blood pressure.

“Cold temperatures can significantly raise the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other severe health events, especially for those with existing cardiovascular conditions,” Dr. Hafeez warned.

Unique Winter Hypertension Phenomenon

Dr. Irfan Ahmed Bhat from SMHS Hospital Srinagar highlighted a fascinating medical observation – “winter hypertension.” This condition sees individuals who are typically healthy developing elevated blood pressure specifically during the cold months.

Key Winter Health Risks Include:

• Increased salt consumption through traditional foods like Nun Chai
• Hidden sodium in processed winter foods
• Vasoconstrictive effects of over-the-counter cold medications
• Physiological changes triggered by low temperatures

Prevention and Monitoring

Medical experts recommend several strategies to manage winter-related cardiovascular risks:

• Regular blood pressure monitoring
• Maintaining medication consistency
• Limiting salt intake
• Consulting doctors before taking cold medications
• Ideal blood pressure target: below 135/85 mmHg

A Growing Public Health Concern

With 30 percent of adults in the Kashmir and Ladakh regions affected by hypertension, healthcare professionals stress the importance of proactive health management, particularly during the winter months.

“Hypertension is a silent condition that can lead to life-threatening events if left unchecked,” Dr. Hafeez emphasized. “Winter demands extra vigilance.”

As Kashmir braces for the coldest months, residents are urged to prioritize their cardiovascular health and work closely with medical professionals to mitigate potential risks.