How does low temperature affect the body besides the usual coughs and colds? Dr Suranjit Chatterjee, senior consultant, internal medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, says: “Low temperatures impact the body in several ways beyond causing coughs and colds. Cold weather leads to vasoconstriction, where blood vessels narrow to conserve heat, reducing blood flow to extremities and increasing the risk of frostbite in severe cases. This can cause numbness, tingling, or even tissue damage in fingers, toes, and ears. The cold also affects the immune system, reducing its efficiency and making the body more susceptible to infections. Additionally, cold temperatures can trigger respiratory conditions such as asthma, as the airways constrict when exposed to cold, dry air. Muscle stiffness and reduced joint mobility are also common due to the drop in temperature, which can exacerbate conditions like arthritis. Furthermore, the body burns more calories to maintain core temperature, leading to fatigue in individuals with low energy reserves. Prolonged exposure to extreme cold can lead to hypothermia, a life-threatening condition where body temperature drops significantly, impairing the functioning of vital organs like the brain and heart.”
How is the heart at an increased risk in low temperatures?
The heart is at greater risk during cold weather due to increased strain caused by the body’s natural response to conserve heat. When exposed to cold, blood vessels constrict, leading to an increase in blood pressure as the heart works harder to pump blood through narrowed pathways. This elevates the risk of heart attacks and strokes, particularly in individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions. Cold temperatures also cause the blood to become thicker, raising the likelihood of clot formation. Additionally, physical exertion like shoveling snow in cold weather places added stress on the heart, often leading to sudden cardiac events in susceptible individuals. People with heart issues may experience reduced oxygen supply to the heart as cold-induced vasoconstriction limits blood flow. The risk is compounded by factors like dehydration, which can increase blood viscosity, and lifestyle changes, such as reduced physical activity in winter. Hence, it is critical for individuals to take precautions like dressing warmly, avoiding overexertion, and monitoring blood pressure during winter.
What special care should patients with BP and joint issues take?
Patients with high BP and joint issues need to adopt special precautions during cold weather. Such patients should monitor their blood pressure regularly and avoid sudden exposure to cold, such as stepping outside without proper warm clothing. Maintaining a balanced diet low in sodium and staying hydrated is also crucial, as dehydration can further raise blood pressure. For individuals with joint issues, cold temperatures can worsen pain and stiffness by reducing blood flow to the joints. Wearing thermal clothing and staying physically active indoors can help maintain joint flexibility and warmth. Gentle stretching or low-impact exercises like yoga can also improve circulation and alleviate stiffness. Applying heat packs to affected areas or soaking in warm baths provides temporary relief. Patients with arthritis should avoid sudden temperature changes and keep their homes warm and well-insulated. Consulting a doctor for appropriate medications or supplements, like vitamin D, is also advised to counteract winter-related symptoms.
Any other organs that low temperature affects severely?
Low temperatures can affect various organs and systems in the body. The skin, for instance, is highly susceptible to damage in cold weather. Prolonged exposure can lead to dryness, cracking, and conditions like frostbite or chilblains, where small blood vessels are damaged. The respiratory system is also significantly impacted. Breathing in cold, dry air can irritate the airways, exacerbating conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Cold air reduces the lungs’ efficiency in oxygen exchange, making it harder for people with pre-existing respiratory conditions to breathe. The kidneys may experience stress during winter due to an increased risk of dehydration. Cold weather suppresses the sensation of thirst, which can lead to reduced water intake and a higher risk of kidney stones. The gastrointestinal system can also be affected, as the body prioritises heat conservation over digestion, potentially leading to slower metabolism and bloating. Lastly, the nervous system can suffer as extreme cold slows nerve conduction, causing numbness or tingling in the extremities. Long-term exposure to severe cold may even impact the brain, impairing cognitive functions and coordination, particularly in cases of hypothermia.
2025-01-18T19:21:22Z