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 defined 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 degrees and during summer can increase to 45 degrees. Because of wide variation in temperature BP fluctuates often in north India. Such a phenomenon is not generally seen in south India or places like Mumbai, Goa, etc. as temperature remains between 20-40 degrees.
There are various explanations for the rise of BP during winter
- During the winter season, sweating is reduced and hence there is no loss of salt and water from the body.
- During peak winter there is vasoconstriction, blood vessel constricts resulting in high resistance
- Pollution increases during winter which increases blood pressure.
- Loss of sunlight and fog etc. reduces vitamin D which also contributes to a rise in BP
- Because of winter, exercise is reduced ( which reduces BP by 5-8 mmHg)
Other social factors like weddings and celebrations are common during winter which results in a high intake of salt, alcohol, and tobacco.
All these factors result 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 the Emergency department with bleeding from the nose, bleeding in the eyes, heart failure, heart attack, and stroke. On the other hand during summer because of heat patients sweat and lose water and salt. Blood vessels dilate. Patients go for regular exercise. Social functions are less and hence intake of salt, and 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 a physician before starting or during winter to adjust doses of Blood pressure medicine and avoid unnecessary complications of High Blood pressure.
One should also avoid morning walks rather they should walk before lunch or in the early evening.
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If you or your loved ones are dealing with blood pressure issues, the best Cardiology Hospital, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital 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.
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