New Delhi: Doctors are issuing a timely alert that while winter feels pleasant, it can silently raise blood pressure to dangerous levels.

Renowned cardiologist Prof Rajeev Narang, Head of the Department of Cardiology at AIIMS, New Delhi, says this seasonal spike in blood pressure is something he sees every year in his clinic. “Many patients come to us surprised,” he explains. “Their blood pressure was perfectly under control a few months ago. Then winter arrives, and suddenly the readings are higher.”

Prof Rajeev Narang, Head of the Department of Cardiology at AIIMS, Delhi.

The reason, he says, lies in how the body reacts to cold. During winter, blood vessels tend to shrink—a process called vasoconstriction—which increases resistance to blood flow. “When this happens, blood pressure goes up. If it remains unchecked, people may experience difficulty while walking, chest discomfort, or worsening angina,” Prof Narang cautions.

What’s particularly worrying is that this rise can affect even those who are regularly taking their medicines. “Patients often assume that because they are on treatment, everything is fine. But winter changes the equation,” he says. His advice is simple but crucial: monitor blood pressure regularly. “Keep a BP machine at home. If your readings go beyond 140/90 mmHg, don’t ignore it—meet your doctor so the dosage can be adjusted.”

Prof Narang also warns that cold weather increases the risk of serious heart problems. Constricted blood vessels reduce blood supply, which can trigger angina and, in severe cases, heart attacks—especially in people with existing heart disease.

Lifestyle habits during winter don’t help either. “People tend to eat more salty and processed foods in cold weather, and at the same time, they drink less water because they don’t feel thirsty,” he notes. Both factors can further push blood pressure upwards. “Adequate hydration is extremely important, even in winter,” he emphasises.

As the chill continues, doctors are urging people—particularly the elderly and those with hypertension or heart disease—to stay alert. Regular BP checks, mindful eating, enough water intake and timely medical consultation, experts say, can go a long way in keeping winter-related heart risks at bay.

(Cover Photo Credit: CANVA)