SRINAGAR, JAN 05: As a major concern, heart attacks surge during winters in Kashmir, affecting not only the elderly but also a growing number of young adults.
During winters, the incidents of heart attacks, especially among the young population are on the rise during winters in Kashmir raising serious concerns among the people.
Dr Javid Bhat, a cardiologist, who sees patients in one of the private hospitals said that cold temperatures lead to some adverse changes in the body including artery constriction.
“Various risk factors, including smoking, high cholesterol, increased blood pressure, and sedentary habits, are exacerbated during cold temperatures which are the main reasons for the surge in heart attacks during winters,” he said.
He said around 20% of heart attack victims in Kashmir are under 40.
Experts say that substance abuse, especially heroin, also contributes to the rise in heart attacks among young individuals.
Experts say this life-threatening condition occurs when the artery responsible for supplying blood and oxygen to the heart becomes blocked, leading to reduced oxygen and blood flow to the heart muscles, which can result in permanent damage.
In many cases, young patients with heart attacks present typical symptoms such as chest pain radiating to the arm and excessive sweating (diaphoresis).
A survey from the National Health Family Survey 5 reveals high rates of cigarette smoking in Jammu and Kashmir and other substance abuse, including opioids, inhalants, and codeine, has become a significant factor contributing to heart attacks among young people. Heroin, in particular, is a prevalent drug in the region, with a sharp increase in overdose-related deaths. The stressors of unemployment and the constant pressure of social media according to experts are additional factors negatively impacting heart health among the youth.
