Max Hospital Bathinda docs raise awareness on cardiac, neuro emergencies in winter

Bathinda: With temperatures dropping and winter setting in across North India, doctors at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Bathinda, raised awareness about the increased risk of cardiac and neurological emergencies during this winter season. The doctors outlined key warning signs, high-risk groups and essential precautions to help people recognise early symptoms of heart and brain-related emergencies and seek timely medical care, thereby reducing the risk of severe complications and saving lives.
Urging the public to stay vigilant during the winter season, Dr. Pallav Jain senior consultant neurology at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Bathinda, said that during the winter season, colder temperatures and lifestyle changes can significantly increase the risk of neurological emergencies such as stroke, seizures and worsening of pre-existing neurological disorders.
Due to such cold weather, patient can face blood pressure spikes, physiological stress, reduced mobility, increased risk of falls and environmental hazards, warned Dr Jain.
Thus, it is crucial to stay vigilant, recognise early warning signs, especially symptoms of brain stroke and seek immediate medical attention, as timely recognition can be lifesaving, he elaborated.  
Dr. Ishtiyaq Masood consultant interventional cardiology said, “Cold weather can put additional strain on the heart, making individuals—especially those with pre-existing heart conditions—more vulnerable to heart attacks, which is why awareness, prevention and quick response are critical during the winter months.
Talking about why cardiac risks are increased in winter, Dr. Dixit Goyal consultant cardiology at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Bathinda, said that the exposure to cold temperatures causes blood vessels to constrict, leading to an increase in blood pressure and added stress on the heart.
This heightened cardiovascular strain can be particularly risky for individuals with existing heart disease or hypertension, he maintained.
To minimize these risks, it is important to keep the body adequately insulated by dressing in warm layers, avoid sudden or intense physical exertion in cold environments, and take regular breaks during outdoor activities, said Dr. Dixit adding maintaining proper hydration is also essential, as dehydration can further increase cardiac workload.