Srinagar, Dec 10: As Kashmir grapples with bone-chilling cold, doctors have issued an advisory to the public, urging precautionary measures to combat the harsh weather conditions.
A severe cold wave has intensified across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh due to clear skies, with Srinagar recording its season’s lowest temperature of -5.4°C on Monday night.
Medical experts are raising concerns over a sharp increase in cardiac arrests, strokes, and respiratory infections during the winter months.
Reports from leading hospitals like SMHS Hospital and SKIMS Soura indicate that an average of 15 cardiac arrest cases are being reported daily.
Cardiologists attribute this spike to cold temperatures that trigger adverse physiological changes in the body, such as artery constriction.
Dr. Majid, a cardiologist, highlighted that factors such as smoking, high cholesterol, sedentary lifestyles, and elevated blood pressure compound these risks.
“Cold weather exacerbates risk factors leading to heart attacks, and about 20% of victims here are under the age of 40,” he said.
He warned that cold temperatures also heighten the risk of strokes, especially during the early morning and evening hours.
Additionally, respiratory conditions like asthma, COPD, and bronchitis are on the rise.
Dr Mohammad Amin, a chest specialist, stated that winter aggravates these diseases, with children and the elderly being particularly vulnerable.
“We are witnessing increased respiratory infections during the winter months, leading to frequent attacks in vulnerable groups,” he said.
He recommended that high-risk individuals should limit unnecessary exposure to cold during morning and evening hours.
The advisory underscores that the cold wave’s health impacts are a growing public health challenge, with both respiratory and cardiac risks surging as the temperatures plummet. Authorities have called for awareness and adherence to preventive measures to mitigate these health concerns amid the worsening winter conditions.
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