Winter's Cold Truth: Why Blood Pressure Spikes & How to Keep It in Check

• Cold weather causes blood vessels to constrict, increasing systemic vascular resistance and forcing the heart to work harder, leading to higher blood pressure.
• Winter lifestyle changes, including reduced physical activity, altered medication, increased stress, and consumption of salty foods, further elevate blood pressure risks.
• Cold air can trigger stress responses, releasing hormones like adrenaline that increase heart rate and blood pressure.
• Manage winter hypertension through consistent monitoring, strict medication adherence, staying warm, light indoor exercise, and a low-salt diet.
• Seek immediate medical evaluation for persistent high readings, headaches, dizziness, chest discomfort, breathlessness, or unusual fatigue.

Why It Matters: Winter elevates blood pressure risks; proactive steps are crucial for heart health.