Why does BP increase in winter? Image Credit source: Getty Images
In winter, the blood pressure of many people suddenly increases as soon as they wake up in the morning. This problem is especially seen in those people who already have problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, thyroid or diabetes. The risk is higher in the elderly and people with weak immunity. In hot temperatures, blood vessels expand, due to which BP remains normal, whereas in cold temperatures, due to contraction, BP increases rapidly. Come, let us know about this.
In cold weather, blood vessels shrink to keep the body warm, due to which the heart has to work harder to pump blood and BP Increases. Apart from this, physical activities reduce in winter, due to which fat starts accumulating in the body and affects BP. Increased salt intake in winter, drinking less water and heavy food also increase the risk of high BP. Stress, lack of sleep, getting up suddenly in the morning, sleep apnea and hormonal changes are also other reasons for increasing BP. Especially in the cold, morning time is most sensitive for the body, hence there is a greater possibility of increase in BP during this period.
Is increasing BP as soon as you wake up in the morning in winter a sign of morning hypertension?
Dr. Ajit Jain in the Cardiology Department at Rajiv Gandhi Hospital. It is said that abnormally high blood pressure immediately after waking up in the morning or in the first few hours of waking up is called morning hypertension. This condition is more common in people who already have high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney problems, sleep disorders or constant stress.
Cortisol hormone increases in the body at the time of waking up, due to which the blood pressure naturally increases, but when it increases excessively then it is called morning hypertension. Its symptoms include heavy headache in the morning, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, restlessness, fatigue and feeling of pressure in the eyes. Ignoring this condition can increase heart attack, stroke and other cardiac risks. Therefore, BP monitoring and timely treatment is very important in winter.
How to protect?
Do not stand up immediately after waking up in the morning, get up slowly.
Wear warm clothes and protect your body from cold.
Do light exercise for 20 to 30 minutes every day.
Keep salt intake low and take a balanced diet.
Drink enough water, stay hydrated even in winter.
Get enough sleep at night and reduce stress.
Take doctor’s medicines on time and monitor BP.