Doctors Issue Advisory as Heart Attack Cases Increase in Kashmir
Srinagar, Dec 16: Cardiologists in Kashmir have reported a sharp rise in heart attacks and stroke cases during the harsh winter months, warning that extreme cold is placing additional stress on the cardiovascular system and significantly increasing health risks, particularly among vulnerable groups.
Speaking to the news agency Kashmir News Observer (KNO), senior cardiologist Dr Mohammad Ashraf Khan said that cardiac emergencies in Kashmir nearly double during winter compared to warmer seasons. He explained that prolonged exposure to low temperatures causes blood vessels to constrict, a condition known as vasoconstriction, which raises blood pressure and forces the heart to work harder.
“During winters in Kashmir, we see more than a twofold increase in heart attacks and strokes,” Dr Khan said. “Cold weather narrows blood vessels, increasing the workload on the heart. This can trigger serious cardiac events, especially in people with pre existing heart disease.”
Dr Khan further explained that cold conditions also thicken the blood, making it more prone to clot formation. This increases the risk of both heart attacks and strokes. He said patients suffering from diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol and those who smoke are at a particularly high risk during winter.
He also pointed out that winter lifestyle changes worsen the situation. “People consume excessive tea, sugary drinks and calorie dense foods to stay warm. This leads to poor sugar control and weight gain, which further increases cardiac risk,” he said.
Another concern highlighted by doctors is the delay in recognising symptoms. Dr Khan said that early signs of heart attacks are often mistaken for chest infections, acidity or muscle pain. “Such misinterpretation leads to delayed treatment, which can be fatal,” he warned.
Cardiologist Dr Zahoor Bhat stressed the importance of preventive measures during the cold season. He advised people to keep themselves adequately warm by wearing layered clothing and ensuring proper heating inside homes.
“Outdoor activity should be limited during extreme cold,” Dr Bhat said. “People should opt for light indoor exercises and avoid sudden strenuous physical activity, which can overload the heart.”
He also emphasised maintaining a balanced diet during winter. “Healthy eating should not be ignored in winter. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins are essential, while salt, sugar and saturated fats must be restricted to control blood pressure and cholesterol,” he said.
Doctors also cautioned that people tend to drink less water during winter, leading to dehydration. They said dehydration thickens the blood and increases the risk of clot formation, making hydration equally important in cold weather.
Medical experts urged people to remain alert to warning signs of heart attacks such as chest pain, breathlessness, sweating, nausea or pain spreading to the arms or jaw. Stroke symptoms include facial drooping, arm weakness, difficulty speaking or sudden loss of balance.
They advised high risk individuals to undergo regular health checkups and immediately seek medical help if any symptoms appear. Doctors said that awareness, timely precautions and early medical intervention can significantly reduce winter related cardiac deaths in the Valley
