Be cautious of cardiovascular diseases when the daily temperature range increases

Be cautious of cardiovascular diseases when the daily temperature range increases

The temperature has dropped significantly for the last couple of days. Autumn may be the perfect season for outdoor activities such as hiking, day trip, and etc., however, it is also the season for middle-aged or older people to watch out for cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease like angina or myocardial infarction as the daily temperature range increases.

◇ ‘Cardiovascular Disease’, the Main Cause of Sudden Death

Angina and myocardial infarction are the most common cardiovascular diseases. Angina accompanies intermittent chest pain as hardening of the arteries slowly progresses, and severe coronary artery blockages interrupt blood supply to the heart causing myocardial infarction. Sudden ruptures of atherosclerotic plaque in coronary artery due to myocardial infarction and severe angina are regarded as the main causes of sudden death, thus, it is important to maintain healthy lifestyle for middle-aged or older people to reduce the risk factors of arteriosclerosis which leads to cardiovascular disease.


◇ Blood Pressure Climbs Up as Temperature Drops

According to the research, blood pressure goes up 1.3mmHg due to the increase of vasoconstriction and cardiac stress when the temperature drops 1 degree, which means 15 degrees of daily temperature range can raise one’s blood pressure by 20mmHg. For this reason it is necessary to measure the blood pressure more often than usual in-between seasons when the difference of morning low temperature and daytime highs becomes greater.

The major risk factors for arteriosclerosis include smoking, diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. People with these risk factors who are middle-aged or over are likely to have cardiac and systemic vascular arteriosclerosis to some extent. Blood pressure changes dramatically as the daily temperature range increases, which raise the burden on the cardiovascular system, thus, the carelessness even for a short period of time can lead to the cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease.

In order to maintain blood pressure within the appropriate range, it is recommended to exercise regularly while maintaining normal body temperature. Avoid the strenuous exercise for two hours after waking up as blood pressure tends to rise much easier.

It is better to exercise during the evenings rather than mornings when the temperature is low. Warm up at least for 10 minutes before starting the daily workout regimen. Walking, stretching, strolling, jump rope, climbing stairs, swimming, and riding a bicycle is recommended for people with hypertension. Type of exercise that increases the burden on the heart must be avoided as it raises blood pressure. Refrain from drinking and smoking, especially in-between seasons, and wear a hat when going out to keep the body temperature. Minor details in your lifestyle can protect you from unexpected life threatening diseases.