Brrr…are you keeping warm in this cold weather? As temperatures across the country plunge, the risk of a stroke or cardiovascular event increases.

Researchers have found that as the ambient temperature drops, the blood vessels become constricted as a way of maintaining the body’s temperature. This raises blood pressure and increases the risk for a stroke or heart attack. Among seniors, some research has shown that women have a greater risk of hemorrhagic stroke when the temperature drops than men do.

The ideal normal blood pressure should be lower than 120/80mm Hg. Keeping blood pressure under control is even more important for people living with a chronic condition such as diabetes and kidney disease.

In addition to monitoring blood pressure regularly and dressing warmly to conserve body heat, cutting the amount of strenuous activities such as heavy lifting under winterly conditions help reduce the stress put on the cardiovascular system.

DISCLAIMER: THE CONTENT AND INFORMATION IN THIS POST SHOULD NOT BE TAKEN AS PROFESSIONAL ADVICE OR REPLACE THE ADVICE AND RECOMMENDATIONS FROM YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS. TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR HEALTH.