Winter Hypertension: Why it's Difficult to Control BP Rise in Cold Weather

Many people start preparing for the colder months as winter draws near by modifying their everyday habits, drinking warm beverages, and wrapping up. The effect of winter on blood pressure, especially for those with hypertension (high blood pressure), is one factor that is frequently disregarded. Blood pressure in general is lower in the summer and higher in the winter. This happens as blood vessels momentarily tighten at cold temperatures. To push blood through constricted veins and arteries, more pressure is required. Hence, blood pressure rises as a result. Maintaining cardiovascular health may need an understanding of how winter affects hypertension. Let’s discuss this in detail.

What is Hypertension?

Hypertension occurs when the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is continuously too high. When individual have high blood pressure, it becomes more difficult for blood to circulate efficiently throughout the body. This condition can contribute to heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage. Blood pressure is measured using two numbers: systolic pressure (the force when the heart contracts) and diastolic pressure (the force when the heart relaxes between beats).

Normal blood pressure is 120/80 or lower. If your blood pressure is between 130 and 139 mmHg/80 and 89 mmHg, it is deemed high (stage 1). A blood pressure reading of 140/90 or higher is considered stage 2 high. However, seek immediate medical attention if your blood pressure readings are 180/120 or above, known as hypertensive crisis to avoid fatal outcomes.

 

 

Connection between Winters and BP Rise

Blood pressure in typically is lower in the summer months and higher in the winter as blood vessels temporarily narrow at cold temperatures. There are multiple factors contribute to affect blood pressure variations in the winter, including:

1. Blood vessel narrowing or vasoconstriction: Vasoconstriction is the body's reaction to a reduction in temperature causing the narrowing of blood vessels. Although this natural process help in heat conservation, it may also increase blood pressure. Blood pressure rises as a result of the heart having to work harder to pump blood through constricted blood vessels.

 

2. Levels of Physical Activity: Outdoor physical exercise is frequently discouraged by winter conditions. People are less likely to exercise regularly when there is snow, ice, and cold weather. Maintaining good blood pressure levels, controlling weight, and lowering stress all depend on physical activity. Wintertime sedentary behaviour raises the risk of heart disease and aggravates hypertension.

3. Modifications to Diet: Dietary changes are frequently brought on by cold weather, with many people turning to comfort foods that are usually heavy in fat, sugar, and sodium. Consuming more sodium can raise blood pressure, particularly in people who already have hypertension. Furthermore, the Christmas season frequently includes get-togethers focused on decadent, rich foods, which makes blood pressure control even more difficult.

 

4. Seasonal affective disorder: SAD or seasonal affective disorder is characterized by low energy and depression as a result of less sunlight exposure during the winter months. SAD-related mental stress can result in unhealthy coping strategies like overeating or inactivity, which can both raise blood pressure.

 

 

Managing Hypertension This Winters

High blood pressure can be managed in winter by the following ways:

 

• Monitor your blood pressure on a regular basis, particularly during the winter months
• Take all prescription drugs as directed
• Maintain a normal temperature inside the house. Before heading outside, wear sufficient warm clothes to maintain body temperature.
• Keep your weight in check
• Make an effort to exercise at least 150 minutes per week
• Adhere to a heart-healthy diet that is low in fat and rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy. Consume less sodium.
• Give up smoking or refrain from starting

To conclude, hypertension is both prevalent and serious. There are numerous strategies to manage it and lower the health risks connected with it, especially in winters. Ignoring high blood pressure might increase your risk of developing a number of ailments. For prompt treatment of high blood pressure, always seek your doctor's advice. In order to combat the impact of cold weather on blood pressure, individuals with hypertension should take the appropriate measures throughout the winter months.

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