Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Dec 27 : With Kashmir firmly in the grip of an intense winter, the Department of Cardiology at Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar has issued an urgent public health advisory, cautioning people against a noticeable surge in heart-related emergencies during the cold season.
Doctors have warned that delays in seeking medical help can prove fatal, stressing that many winter-related cardiac events are preventable with timely care and precautionary measures.
In the advisory, a copy of which lies with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), cardiac specialists at GMC Srinagar highlighted that extreme cold places additional stress on the human heart, particularly among vulnerable groups.
“Timely medical intervention saves lives. Waiting for symptoms to pass can have irreversible consequences,” the advisory clearly underlined, urging people not to ignore even mild warning signs.
*Why winter increases cardiac risk*
Medical experts explained that exposure to low temperatures causes blood vessels to constrict, a natural response aimed at conserving body heat. However, this narrowing of blood vessels results in elevated blood pressure and forces the heart to pump harder to maintain adequate blood flow. Such physiological changes significantly increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular emergencies during the winter months.
Globally, studies have shown a higher incidence of cardiac events in colder climates, and Kashmir is no exception. Doctors at GMC Srinagar said that every winter, hospitals witness a sharp rise in emergency cardiac admissions, many of which are linked to delayed reporting and lack of awareness.
*Who is most at risk?*
The advisory identified several high-risk groups who need to be extra cautious during winter:
Individuals with a known history of heart disease or those who have previously suffered a heart attack or stroke
Patients living with chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or kidney disease
Elderly individuals and habitual smokers
People who suddenly increase physical activity, especially during early cold mornings, such as brisk walks or strenuous labor without proper warm-up
Doctors said that for such individuals, even minor negligence can trigger serious cardiac complications.
*Key preventive measures*
To reduce the risk of heart-related emergencies, the Department of Cardiology recommended several practical preventive steps:
Dress warmly at all times, with special attention to protecting the chest, head, hands, and feet
Avoid unnecessary exposure to extreme cold, particularly during early morning hours
Continue all prescribed heart and blood pressure medications strictly, without skipping doses
Monitor blood pressure regularly, as readings often rise during winter
Engage in moderate physical activity and avoid sudden or strenuous exertion in cold conditions
Seek prompt medical treatment for respiratory infections such as cough, flu, or pneumonia, which can precipitate cardiac events
*Warning signs that demand immediate medical attention*
The advisory strongly urged the public not to dismiss symptoms that may indicate a serious cardiac or neurological emergency. Immediate medical help should be sought if any of the following occur:
Chest pain, pressure, or discomfort
Sudden shortness of breath
Excessive sweating, dizziness, or unexplained fatigue
Palpitations, fainting, or near-fainting episodes
Sudden weakness, slurred speech, or drooping of the face, which may signal a stroke
Doctors stressed that ignoring these symptoms or waiting for them to subside on their own can lead to permanent damage or loss of life.
Public advisory and preparedness
People with known heart conditions have been advised to keep emergency contact numbers readily accessible and ensure quick transportation to the nearest cardiac care facility if needed. Family members and caregivers were also urged to remain vigilant, especially for elderly patients living alone.
“Most winter-related cardiac emergencies are preventable with awareness, strict adherence to medication, lifestyle precautions, and early medical attention,” the advisory noted, adding that community awareness plays a crucial role in saving lives during the harsh winter months.
The advisory has been issued in the larger public interest by the Department of Cardiology, GMC Srinagar, as part of ongoing efforts to reduce preventable winter-related deaths and ensure timely medical response across the Valley—(KNO)
