Extreme cold weather heightens risk of brain stroke, say doctors

New Delhi: As the winter settles in different regions, experts have expressed concern over the correlation between the cold weather and an elevated risk of brain haemorrhage, presenting a critical nexus between temperature and health issues.

Dr Manish Vaish, senior director, of neurosurgery, at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Delhi, said that a series of pivotal studies published in esteemed medical journals, including ScienceDirect, American Heart Association Journals, and PubMed, have unearthed an alarming connection - cold weather significantly amplifies the vulnerability to brain haemorrhage, impacting individuals with hypertension and normotensive individuals alike.

In a compelling case-crossover analysis featured in ScienceDirect, researchers have revealed that cold temperatures pose a heightened risk for haemorrhagic stroke compared to snowfall.

"This study emphasises the potent role of cold weather as a risk factor for brain haemorrhage, suggesting a potential trigger for this," Dr Vaish said.

"Cold weather appears to act as a catalyst, particularly in individuals with hypertension, elevating the risk of brain haemorrhage. The correlation between cold weather and heightened risk demands proactive preventive measures, especially for those with existing health conditions," added Dr Vaish.

Furthermore, a study in the American Heart Association Journal highlighted a disconcerting link between cold temperatures and increased blood pressure in normotensive individuals, said Dr Yashpal Singh Bundela, senior consultant, Sushrut Brain and Spine, Delhi.

He emphasised, "Even normotensive individuals face an increased risk of high blood pressure in colder temperatures, significantly heightening the risk of cerebral haemorrhage. This underscores the need for timely interventions to mitigate potential health hazards during cold weather." The implications of these findings are clear and pressing. Timely intervention, including managing blood pressure levels and adopting protective measures against extreme cold, is crucial to minimise the potential risks associated with brain haemorrhage during colder seasons, he stated.

"The call for public awareness and proactive health measures is underscored by these ground-breaking studies. As winter settles in, individuals, especially those with hypertension or cardiovascular risks, are urged to take preventive steps, including regular health check-ups, maintaining optimal blood pressure levels, and staying warm in colder temperatures," added, Dr Bundela.

If someone suffers a brain haemorrhage, it is important to rush the patient to the nearest emergency department at the earliest, Dr Bundela further said.

Common signs of brain haemorrhage can encompass a range of symptoms, such as sudden severe headaches, weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, vision disturbances, dizziness or loss of balance, nausea or vomiting without an apparent cause, and seizures. In some cases, there might be a loss of consciousness or altered mental state.

"Time is of utmost essence in managing brain haemorrhage. Swift and coordinated medical intervention is crucial, involving stabilising vital signs, ensuring proper oxygenation, and controlling blood pressure to prevent complications. Surgical interventions might be necessary, accompanied by medications addressing symptoms and underlying conditions such as hypertension," emphasised Dr Vaish.