How Does Winter Affect Stroke Patients?
The Medical Science Monitor (MSM) published an exciting finding in 2019. It revealed the connection between ischemic strokes and winter. The study aimed to explore the effect of winter temperatures on the risk factors, etiology, coagulation, and degree of neurological impairment in patients with ischemic stroke during the winter. It revealed that the incidence of stroke increases in winter. The most affected were women and patients below 65 years of age.
Researchers believe certain weather changes could act as triggers for a stroke and knowing the signs and symptoms, as well as modifiable risk factors, could help reduce permanent damage to patients suffering from a stroke.
This new research may change the way treatment modules are formulated for at-risk patients by the healthcare team.
Understanding Ischemic Stroke
According to the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the primary reason for Ischemic stroke is insufficient blood and oxygen supply to the brain, which results in damage to brain tissues and causes structural and functional disorders as well as neurological impairment.
Although the findings are a revelation, the pathogenesis of the relationship between low temperature and ischemic stroke remains unclear. Researchers speculate that the reason could be vasoconstriction which means the narrowing of blood vessels, increased blood pressure, vascular congestion, and edema due to the cold.
Chronic hypertension can be a cause of cerebral artery atherosclerosis that leads to ischemic stroke. NLM states that ‘Cold can lead to the upregulation of vasoconstriction-associated molecules, including adrenaline, noradrenaline, and renin, which induce peripheral vasoconstriction, increase peripheral vascular resistance, and increase blood pressure. Also, cold can lead to decreased production of vasodilator molecules, including nitric oxide (NO), which results in increased blood pressure.’
With sufficient data to establish the risk of Stroke Patients in winter, a pertinent question is what patients can do to keep themselves protected.
Ways to Keep Stroke Patients Protected in Winter
1. Diet is a major risk factor. Stroke patients should watch what they eat. Limiting the amount of sodium in their diet to less than 1500 milligrams of salt, or about half a teaspoon of salt is recommended by dietitians. Also, people can include more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in their diet and limit the high-calorie heavy food.
2. They should stay indoors as much as possible and use an indoor heater if required. This helps to regulate the body temperature and keep the blood vessels dilated.
3. Staying indoors and using indoor heating systems have their own side-effect-Dehydration. People tend to consume less water water during winter and in addition to this, there is increased loss of water due to the heating systems. Hence to keep stroke at bay it is important to keep patients hydrated adequately and let them keep sipping water and other liquids.
4. A sedentary routine and lifestyle leads to obesity and hypertension. Hence stroke patients are always advised to do exercises and maintain their body weight. In winter, they can do some winter-friendly indoor exercises and some amount of physical activity to decrease stroke risk.
5. There is an increased risk of the common cold and flu, during winter. It leads to inflammation in the body and stresses out the cardiac system, leading to a heightened risk of stroke. Therefore it is advisable for patients to keep up good respiratory hygiene and ensure that they are vaccinated against flu.
6. Diabetes can cause narrowing of the arteries and thereby increase the risk of stroke, hence patients should be guided to maintain their sugar levels, especially during the festive winter season, and be vigilant of their sugar intake.
7. Meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can significantly help reduce stress during the holidays in winter and reduce the risk of stroke.
8. Quality sleep is a must-have for stroke patients in winter to maintain brain health and avoid cardiovascular conditions and consequently stroke risk.
9. A note to all the family members who have a loved one with a risk of stroke. It is crucial to familiarize themselves with the signs and symptoms of stroke and remain alert to seek out medical assistance immediately.
Winter is synonymous with holidays and festivities. Keeping in mind the above information can save stroke patients from falling prey to the attack and let them enjoy their time with family and loved ones.
Looking for comprehensive stroke rehabilitation in winter and to spend the season without any tension? Sukino has got you covered.
Related
BY: Sukino
COMMENTS: No Comments