What is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is commonly expressed as two values: the systolic pressure over the diastolic pressure. The systolic pressure indicates the force exerted when the heart contracts, while the diastolic pressure measures the force when the heart is at rest. Normal blood pressure typically ranges between 110/70 mm Hg to 130/85 mm Hg. High blood pressure is defines as blood pressure above 140/90 mm Hg, while the target for controlling blood pressure is 130/85 mm Hg.
Seasonal Variations of Blood Pressure in North India
In north India during winter temperature drops to 2-3 degree and during summer can increases to 45 degree. Because of wide variation in temperature BP fluctuates often in north India. Such phenomenon is not generally seen in south India or in places like Mumbai, Goa etc. as temperature remains between 20-40 degrees.
There are various explanation for rise of BP during winter
- During winter season sweating is reduced and hence there is no loss of salt and water from body.
- During peak winter there is vasoconstriction, blood vessel constricts resulting in high resistance
- Pollution increases during winter that results in increase in blood pressure.
- Loss of sunlight and fog etc. reduces the vitamin D which also contributes to rise in BP
- Because of winter the exercise is reduced ( which reduces BP by 5-8 mmHg)
- Others social factors like wedding and celebrations are common during winter which results in high intake of salt, alcohol and tobacco.
All these factors results in high blood pressure and blood pressure medication should be adjusted or increased. If not BP is not controlled and patients quite commonly come to Emergency department with bleeding from nose, bleeding in eyes, heart failure, heart attack, and stroke. On the other hand during summer because of heat patients sweat and loose water and salt. Blood vessels dilate. Patients go for regular exercise. Social functions are less and hence intake of salt, tobacco is reduced. Quite often we have to reduce the blood pressure medicine. This phenomenon has been confirmed by clinical studies using ambulatory blood pressure monitoring.
So the lesson is to visit physician before staring or during winter to adjust doses of Blood pressure medicine and avoid unnecessarily complication of High Blood pressure.
One should also avoid morning walk rather they should walk before lunch or at early evening.
Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, a renowned healthcare institution, aims to provide care and expertise for individuals facing blood pressure problems. Equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure and a team of experienced doctors, the hospital excels in diagnosing, treating, and managing various hypertension related conditions.
If you or your loved ones are dealing with blood pressure issues, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital Cardiology department is ready to extend their expertise and support, ensuring the best possible care. Prioritize your health and make a proactive choice for a healthier future.
For more information book an appointment with Sir Ganga Ram Hospital.
