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Winters are the wrap-up time of the year in Northern India, with cold weather all around forcing everyone to layer up in woolens. With cold weather, we experience a change in our eating patterns, the body craves more warmth in food and beverages alike. Hot chocolate, soups, and heavy meals are a welcome sight for everyone. With heavy food indulgence comes the responsibility of taking care of your health.
Winter and Stroke instances
In the course of time, many studies have been conducted in hospital and clinical spaces showing a sharp rise in cases of stroke during winters. One of the largest studies conducted by the American Heart Association concluded that there is a general increase in instances of stroke during winters, and a similar correlation is seen in summers, with cases dropping in the warm weather. Get the finest neurology treatment at the best neurology hospital in Delhi.
What causes a Stroke?
Before we try to understand what causes a stroke, we must know what a stroke is. A stroke is a condition, often loosely referred to as a brain attack. In this condition, the blood supply to the brain is cut off and this can cause stress to the muscles. In cases where the blood supply is disrupted for a prolonged period, the cells in the brain may die and there may be brain damage or death.
A heart stroke, on the other hand, is a disruption in the blood supply to the heart. This again can lead to irreversible damage to the heart cells and muscles and may lead to death.
Now that we know what a stroke is, it is easy to say what causes it. Since disruption of the blood supply is what causes a stroke, therefore, any factor that can cause the disruption is our culprit. Constriction of blood vessels due to clogging is one big reason for strokes.
Risk Factors for Stroke
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Blockage of blood vessels.
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Narrowing of blood vessels.
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High Blood Pressure.
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Stress
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Physical Inactivity
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Binge eating or Drinking
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High Cholesterol
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Cardiovascular Disease
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Covid-19 Infection history.
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Advanced Age
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Diabetes
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Family History/ Genetics
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Drug Abuse
Stroke in Winter; Why and How?
We just read how there is a spike in the number of stroke patients across the world during cold weathers. Let us explore the possible reasons for the same:
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Vasoconstriction
Winters mean cold weather, and with cold weather, there is an overall change in the ambient temperatures. The drop in mercury (lower ambient temperatures) can lead to constriction of blood vessels. With a constriction in blood vessels and muscle cells to conserve body heat, there is an increase in blood pressure. Blood Pressure, as is already known, is a big risk factor for stroke.
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Hibernation
Humans do not hibernate, but we do lose interest in physical activity during winter. There is a general sense of lethargy with the cold weather as staying indoors in the comfort of warm blankets and easy access to hot foods makes us feel good.
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Holiday Spirit
With the winter months, there is a holiday spirit and year-end relief which puts many of us in a relaxed mode wanting to binge eat or make merry with friends and family. This too can lead to overeating and contribute to the condition in a negative way.
Preventive Care for Stroke
Prevention is better than cure, and health is wealth. At Manipal, we have some of the best neurology doctors in Delhi and the best cardiology experts that can help you assess your health parameters and guide you in taking good care of yourself and your loved ones.
Some tips to follow during Winter:
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Eat Seasonal fruits and Vegetables.
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Drink plenty of fluids (Soups etc.).
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Avoid alcohol and drugs (or minimize your intake).
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Exercise indoors (In comfortable temperatures).
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Maintain a healthy BMI.
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Wear weather-appropriate attire (prevent temperature fluctuations).
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Regular Checkup
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Care and Monitoring
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Anti-coagulants or medication (for those with identified history/risk).
For those in advanced age, special care must be taken. They should always have an attendant or family member around, who is capable of spotting signs of a stroke for proactive care and help. These include:
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F - Facial Drooping
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A - Arm or body limpness or weakness
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S - Slurred Speech
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T - Time (Act fast)
A person suffering Stroke requires immediate medical attention else the damage would be irreversible. Hence, a fast response is the only way to ensure full recovery for the patient. At Manipal Hospitals, we have some of the best Emergency and Critical Care teams to take care of triage management in time-intensive conditions.
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