Mudassir Kuloo
Srinagar, Dec 26: Medical experts in Kashmir have sounded an alarm over a sharp rise in heart attack cases during the winter season, calling it a serious and growing public health concern that is increasingly affecting not only the elderly but also younger age groups.
Doctors at major tertiary care hospitals, including SMHS Hospital, Super Speciality Hospital, and SKIMS Soura in Srinagar, report that an average of nearly 15 cardiac arrest cases are being recorded daily during peak winter months. The surge, they say, is closely linked to extreme cold conditions that trigger adverse physiological responses in the human body.
Cardiologists explain that exposure to cold causes blood vessels to constrict, leading to increased blood pressure and added strain on the heart. “Cold weather worsens existing risk factors such as smoking, high cholesterol, hypertension and sedentary lifestyles, significantly increasing the likelihood of heart attacks,” said Dr Mohammad Shafi, a cardiologist.
He said that while people above 60 years of age, diabetics, hypertensive patients and smokers remain the most vulnerable, doctors are witnessing a disturbing rise in cardiac cases among younger individuals.
According to medical experts, nearly 20 percent of heart attack patients in Kashmir are now below the age of 40. Specialists attribute this trend to a combination of unhealthy lifestyles, rising substance abuse and increasing psychosocial stress. “Substance abuse, particularly heroin, has emerged as a major contributor to heart problems among the youth,” said a senior cardiologist, adding that unemployment, mental stress and social media pressure are further aggravating cardiovascular risks.
Data from the National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5) highlights high rates of cigarette smoking in Jammu and Kashmir. Health experts say the growing use of opioids, inhalants and codeine-based substances has further complicated the region’s health scenario, contributing to cardiac events among younger populations.
Doctors explained that heart attacks occur when arteries supplying oxygen-rich blood to the heart become blocked, resulting in reduced blood flow and permanent damage to heart muscles. In younger patients, symptoms often include severe chest pain radiating to the left arm, shortness of breath, nausea and excessive sweating. Physicians warn that any delay in seeking medical attention can prove fatal.
Apart from heart ailments, experts have also cautioned that cold temperatures significantly increase the risk of strokes, especially during early morning and evening hours when temperatures drop sharply. “Winter not only elevates the risk of heart attacks but also substantially raises the chances of strokes,” Dr Shafi warned.
Respiratory illnesses are also witnessing a seasonal spike. Dr Mohammad Amin, a chest specialist, said hospitals are reporting a rise in cases of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and bronchitis. “Winter aggravates respiratory conditions, with children and the elderly being particularly vulnerable. We are seeing more respiratory infections triggering frequent attacks in high-risk groups,” he said.
Doctors have advised people, particularly those with pre-existing health conditions, to avoid unnecessary exposure to cold during morning and evening hours. They have also stressed the importance of preventive measures such as regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet, quitting smoking and avoiding substance abuse.
