Extreme Weather can be dangerous for Heart Disease Patients, Say Experts

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Experts are advising individuals with heart disease to take extra precautions during extreme weather conditions. Whether it’s intense heat, cold or storms such environments can exacerbate heart-related issues and increase the risk of complications. With both hot and cold temperatures potentially putting strain on the heart, patients are encouraged to limit outdoor activities, stay hydrated and ensure they are in a safe, controlled environment to manage their health effectively. Here are some key facts and reasons why heart disease patients are urged to avoid extreme weather conditions:

1. Temperature Extremes Strain the Heart:

- Cold weather causes blood vessels to constrict, which can increase blood pressure and make the heart work harder. This can be dangerous for heart disease patients as it raises the risk of heart attacks or strokes.

- Hot weather can lead to dehydration and lower blood pressure, causing the heart to pump harder to maintain blood flow. This can increase the risk of cardiovascular events in vulnerable individuals.

2. Increased Stress on the Cardiovascular System:

- Extreme heat can trigger an increase in heart rate and stress on the cardiovascular system, particularly if individuals are not acclimatized or are engaging in physical activities outdoors.

- In cold weather, the body's response to keep warm, such as increased heart rate and constriction of blood vessels, places additional strain on the heart.

3. Risk of Blood Clots:

- In colder temperatures, blood tends to thicken, increasing the risk of blood clots, which can lead to heart attacks or strokes in patients with existing heart conditions.

- Hot weather can contribute to electrolyte imbalances and blood flow irregularities, potentially leading to clotting issues.

4. Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalances:

- In hot weather, dehydration can cause the heart to pump less effectively and an imbalance of key electrolytes like potassium and sodium can disrupt heart rhythm, particularly in those with heart disease.

5. Compromised Thermoregulation:

- People with heart disease often have a weakened ability to regulate body temperature, making it harder for them to adapt to temperature extremes, whether it’s extreme cold or heat.

6. Increased Hospitalization Risk:

- Studies show that during extreme weather events, the number of hospitalizations for heart-related issues rises. People with heart conditions are more likely to experience complications such as heart attacks, arrhythmias or heart failure. For these reasons, healthcare experts strongly recommend that heart disease patients take measures to protect themselves from extreme weather by staying indoors, avoiding strenuous activity and staying hydrated.

He also urged people to be "aware about one's cardiovascular health such as blood pressure, deep vein thrombosis, uncontrolled diabetes status before venturing to extreme weather events". Cardiologist Ashwani Mehta, from a city-based hospital, said many people get heart attacks in the winter. It is majorly due to the fluctuation in the temperature which can spike the blood pressure levels. "It can even increase the sympathetic response to the changing blood pressure, leading to increased BP and heart rate; and the arteries can go into constriction". Various studies show that the platelet aggregability and the tendency to form clots in the arteries increase during the winter season. This can also increase the rate of heart attacks during the winter season.

Exposure to extreme cold can affect the heart, the brain and other vital organs. One should keep their body warm to help reduce blood vessel constriction, lowering stress on the heart. Sudden exposure to cold can also cause strain on the heart, leading to angina or heart attacks. It is advised that one should warm up before stepping outdoors, and avoid strenuous activities immediately after going outside. Mehta also urged devotees going to the Maha Kumbh "to focus not to expose themselves to very high levels of temperature fluctuation". Braving the biting cold, over 3.5 crore devotees took the holy dip in Sangam on the first Amrit Snan, on Makar Sankranti on Tuesday. Maha Kumbh 2025 is being held after 12 years and is a spiritual event drawing over 450 million devotees from around the world. The mega event will continue till February 26.