Heart attacks in Kashmir are linked with cold weather as more people tend to have attacks during winter, while sedentary lifestyle and unchecked health conditions are also contributing factors behind rise in deaths
As the dip in temperature starts in November month, the heart attack cases keep rising in hospitals. People suffering from hypertension, diabetes and chest ailments are more vulnerable.
Doctors say that heart attacks and strokes in Kashmir almost double during winter months. Incidence of heart diseases increase is attributed mainly to cold temperature and pollution. People should avoid smoking, keep blood pressure under control, control diabetes and take less salts which will help decrease chances of heart attacks.
Doctors suggest whenever there is a suspect case of heart attack or faces heart pain, the patient without any delay must be taken to hospital having an ECG facility.
Doctors say that older people and those with existing heart conditions are particularly vulnerable and should stay warm when the temperature drops. It has been found that during winter months especially in Chillai Kalan, heart attacks increase in Kashmir. Studies have also revealed that 20 to 40 percent chances of increase in heart attacks in winters.
Older people should avoid extreme cold. Similarly people should avoid morning walks in and trips outside during winters so that it does not affect their heart. People should also avoid stress to prevent heart attacks. Keeping blood pressure, cholesterol and sugars in control. People should avoid first and second-hand smoke. They should also avoid fatty diet and high-calorie items. Avoiding extremes of temperature are also important.
The doctor said there are many genetic reasons and seasonal ones too. He said people in Kashmir have more EMI due to the sedentary behaviour. Our basic health conditions remain unchecked for long like hypertension, diabetes and high cholesterol.
The health department of the government of Jammu and Kashmir (UT) should also go for a survey on the most prevalent diseases that affect the people during winters across Kashmir division. And come up with remedial measures accordingly in a time bound manner.
