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The temperature is continuously decreasing in many parts of the country. The increasing cold affects our body in many ways, one of which is the thickening of the blood. This condition is especially seen in those people who are already heart patients, suffering from high BP, diabetes or high cholesterol.
In such a situation, let us know why blood thickens in winter and can it increase the risk of heart attack?
Why does blood become thick in winter?
Dr. Ajit Jain in the Cardiology Department at Rajiv Gandhi Hospital. It is said that the main reason for thickening of blood in winter is the contraction of blood vessels during cold. As the cold increases, the body tries to conserve heat and blood circulation starts slowing down. This increases the amount of platelets and protein in the blood and makes it a little thick.
Sometimes drinking less water also increases this problem, because dehydration in the body increases the thickness of the blood. Its symptoms include tingling in hands and feet, cold fingers, dizziness, feeling heavy in the head, shortness of breath or getting tired quickly. This effect is more visible in people who already have high BP, cholesterol or sugar problems. Caution is necessary when such signals are received.
Does thickening of blood increase the risk of heart attack?
Dr. Ajit Jain Told that thickening of blood in winter can increase the risk of heart attack. When the blood becomes thick, the heart has to work harder to pump it. Due to shrinking of blood vessels, blood flow becomes slower, which increases the possibility of blockage.
People who already have high BP, diabetes, obesity or high cholesterol need to be more cautious at this time. Due to cold, pressure on the veins of the heart increases and there is a risk of sudden blood clot formation. Therefore, it is important to take special care of heart health in winter.
How to protect?
Drink enough water daily.
Do light exercise and walk.
Cover your body when going out in extreme cold.
Eat less high fat and oily food.
Heart, BP and sugar patients should take medicines regularly.
Avoid going into cold environment suddenly.
Control the amount of salt.