While winter means a welcome break from the intense heat, it also brings an unexpected and serious health challenge. According to experts, cold weather increases the chances of a brain stroke - especially among those who already have underlying risk factors.

Doctors are now urging the residents to remain alert and take preventive measures, stressing that strokes are medical emergencies where timely treatment can save lives and prevent long-term disability. And with an intense cold wave already gripping most parts of north India, it is only right that you take all the precautions as suggested.

Why does cold increase the risk of brain strokes?


Experts say low temperatures affect the human body in several ways. Winter forces your body to work harder to maintain normal warmth, and this influences the heart, blood vessels, and brain.

Cold temperatures make the blood vessels constrict, which increases the pressure in the arteries. When blood pressure rises, the risk of a blood vessel bursting or a clot forming becomes higher, making winter an especially sensitive time for those with hypertension, or high blood pressure levels. Also, in cold months, your body loses moisture faster, as dehydration also takes place, making the blood thicker, which flows very slowly in the arteries. According to experts, these blood vessels supply blood to the brain.

Since most people switch on their heaters during cold hours, moving from a warm room into cold outdoor air can also lead to an abrupt change in circulation, which spikes stress on your heart and blood vessels, raising the risk of stroke.

What is a brain stroke?


A brain stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident, happens when the blood flow to a part of your brain is blocked or a blood vessel bursts, depriving brain cells of oxygen and nutrients, causing them to die rapidly and leading to potential disability or death. The two main types are ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke.

Experts say strokes are the second leading cause of death across the world among all age groups.

Signs and symptoms of a brain stroke


Doctors say a cause can cause different symptoms depending on which area of your brain it affects. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Aphasia or trouble speaking


• Blurred vision


• Dizziness or vertigo


• Severe and sudden headaches


• Loss of muscle control on one side of your face


• Loss of coordination


• Memory loss


• Mood swings


• Nausea and vomiting


• Stiffness in the neck


• Slurred or garbled speaking


• Weakness or paralysis on one side of your face and body

Ways to lower the risk of stroke in winter


Doctors suggest a few daily habits you must follow that can make a major difference in stroke prevention during winter.

Stay warm


Make sure to cover your head, hands, and feet when going outdoors by wearing hats and gloves. Also, always layer the clothing so that your body does not experience sudden temperature drops.

Monitor blood pressure regularly


Make sure to keep a track of your blood pressure levels, and if you have hypertension, be extra careful during cold mornings and evenings.

Hydrate


In winter, you may not feel very thirsty, but still your body needs enough water. Hydration keeps blood from thickening excessively.

Exercise


Even though you may not want to, doing daily gentle stretching, indoor walking, or light exercises improves blood circulation. Even ten to fifteen minutes of activity a few times a day can help.

Eat warming food


Nutritious meals keep the body energetic, and so, eating warm soups, vegetables, whole grains, and seasonal fruits is a good choice.