A sharp drop in temperature over the past two weeks in Lucknow has triggered a significant public health concern, with hospitals reporting a near doubling of emergency cases related to heart attacks and strokes. The trend underscores the dangerous impact of cold exposure on cardiovascular and neurological health.
A Warning Case from Daliganj
The human face of this alarming trend is Kishan Kumar, a 65-year-old resident of Daliganj. In the early morning hours, he suddenly developed weakness on one side of his body and his speech became slurred. He was immediately rushed to the King George's Medical University (KGMU). Doctors diagnosed him with a stroke, triggered by a sudden spike in blood pressure due to cold exposure. "He reached the hospital in time, which helped prevent major brain damage," attending physicians noted. Kishan's timely arrival was a crucial factor in his recovery, highlighting the importance of recognizing symptoms and seeking urgent care.
Hospitals Overwhelmed by Rising Numbers
Kishan's case is far from isolated. Major hospitals in the city are witnessing a dramatic surge in such emergencies. At KGMU, emergency units are now handling 22–25 heart attack cases and 15–20 stroke patients daily, which is almost double their usual load. Similarly, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences (RMLIMS) is reporting 8–10 heart attacks and 10–15 stroke cases every day. Balrampur Civil Hospital is also seeing a rise, with 10–12 heart attacks and 6–8 stroke patients daily. Doctors confirmed that these numbers were nearly half until recently. Most patients are being brought in during the early morning and late evening hours, when exposure to the cold is at its peak.
Why Cold Weather Poses a Severe Threat
Medical experts explain the physiological dangers behind this winter spike. Prof. DK Singh, head of neurology at RMLIMS, stated that cold causes blood vessels to constrict. This leads to a sudden rise in blood pressure and increases the risk of clot formation or even vessel rupture. "In winter, blood flow to the brain can get compromised abruptly, triggering strokes. Many patients reach hospitals late because early warning signs are ignored," he warned.
From a cardiac perspective, Prof. Pravesh Vishwakarma from the department of cardiology at KGMU added that winter increases strain on the heart. "Cold raises blood pressure, slightly thickens blood, and increases the heart's oxygen demand. This is why heart attacks rise during winters, especially among those with underlying heart disease," he explained. He also flagged poor blood pressure control as a major concern, noting that many patients stop medication once readings appear normal, which can lead to permanent vessel damage.
High-Risk Groups and Essential Precautions
Doctors have identified specific groups that are at the highest risk during this cold spell. These include:
- Elderly individuals
- People with existing conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and obesity
- Smokers
- Patients with a previous history of heart disease or stroke
Particularly vulnerable are those who stop their prescribed medicines, go for early-morning walks without adequate warm clothing, or remain exposed to cold for long periods.
Emphasizing the need for early action, Prof. Rajesh Verma, head of neurology at KGMU, said timely treatment can be lifesaving. "Sudden weakness on one side, slurred speech, facial drooping or loss of balance should never be ignored. Reaching the hospital within the ‘golden hour', up to four hours, can save lives and prevent permanent disability," he advised. His recommendations include avoiding early-morning walks during extreme cold, staying hydrated, limiting alcohol intake, and managing stress.
Prof. Vishwakarma urged people not to skip medicines, avoid sudden cold exposure, and seek immediate help for any chest pain or breathlessness. He also advised that elderly people and those with comorbidities should consider taking anti-flu vaccines, as respiratory infections in winter can further trigger cardiac events.
