Cold weather can increase the risk of stroke by up to 30 per cent, a new study has warned.

Scientists have discovered that sudden drops in temperature can lead to a sharp increase in the risk of potentially-deadly brain clots. For every 2.9C (5.2F) decline in outside air temperature over a 24-hour period, the number of strokes in the general population goes up by 11 per cent.

Chilling fact: Stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide and the leading cause of disability.

       In a report on their findings researchers said: 'A rapid decrease in temperature over 24 hours was associated with an increased risk for strokes. Most are due to clots that block a blood vessel to the brain, and high blood pressure is a major risk factor. Around 85 per cent of victims are affected by ischaemic strokes, where a clot travels to the brain and shuts off its blood supply.

       When temperatures go down, blood vessels in the skin constrict so the body doesn't waste a lot of heat, which can raise blood pressure. Sudden temperature changes can also trigger a stress reaction by the body, causing it to release substances “that not only increase the work of the heart” but make blood stickier and more likely to form blockages in the tiny arteries which leads to heart attack and stroke.

      It’s been estimated an annual incidence of stroke in Vietnam at 200,000, leading to over 100,000 deaths., accorrding to Dr. Tran Chi Cuong, Director of Stroke Center at CIH, who is also the President of Ho Chi Minh Society of Vascular and Interventional Neurology. He continued: “Your brain needs oxygen-rich blood to function. When a clot blocks your artery at the start of a stroke, the damage is swift. Every minute of delay to treatment is said to cost a patient 1.9 million brain cells. When a blood clot blocks your artery and shuts off its blood supply to the brain at the start of a stroke, the damage is swift. There’re chances of survival for “golden hour” patients arriving within 3 hours to hospital arrival. With any delay, stroke victims are ineligible, little to no chance of survival, neurological deficit and mobility impairment.... “

Dr Tran Chi Cuong giving explainations and consultations  based on the final risk scores of stroke screening results.

     Elderly people (age of 50 and above) are particularly vulnerable to a drop in body temperature (hypothermia) in the winter months. But among those already at high risk, due to raised blood pressure, smoking or being overweight, the increase is 30 per cent. Eight out of ten stroke patients survive their stay in hospital, only six stroke survivors are able to return home and live independently, two of stroke survivors leave hospital with a disability and live with support of their families and two die. Many cold weather cases are subject to disability after stroke.

     People with cardiac conditions should also have a flu jab as the virus makes the heart work much harder driving up blood pressure which still remains the biggest single cause of strokes and it is crucial patients check it regularly.

Cold Weather Cures for Preventing Stroke

This may encourage stroke prevention strategies by shifting the attention of doctors to early signs of stroke under adverse weather conditions and by raising public awareness. Here’s what to do to reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke, especially in cold weather:

Bundle up and keep warm

  • Keep your home at a temperature of at least 16 to 18 degrees Centigrade and use a hot water bottle or an electric blanket to keep warm in bed. 
  • Bundle up to avoid getting too cold. Wear a hat  Since a lot of heat is lost from your head and scarf. Gloves and multiple layers, which can help you stay warm by trapping air and body heat. But don’t overdo it. If you get hot, take off a layer. And remember to stay well hydrated.
  • Regular hot meals and drinks can also give the body the energy it needs to keep you warm.

Get a flu shot

  • People with cardiac conditions should also have a flu jab as the virus makes the heart work much harder driving up blood pressure which still remains the biggest single cause of strokes and it is crucial patients check it regularly.
  • A study published in October 2013 in The Journal of the American Medical Association found that a flu shot was associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular events; getting a flu shot may reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke. Likewise, reduce your chances of getting the flu by staying away from people who are sick, washing your hands with soap and water often, and avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

Don’t let snow kick off your workout

Stay active indoors – move around at least once an hour and avoid sitting still for long periods.

Get a checkup

As you’re gearing up for winter, make sure your health is optimized. In other words, the start of winter is a good time for a routine physical to make sure your blood cholesterol and blood pressure are under control. High cholesterol and high blood pressure can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Manage your risks

While we cannot control the weather, the focus should be on controllable risk factors for stroke, such as diet, weight, blood pressure, exercise and whether they take a statin to treat high cholesterol. These include seeking treatments for chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes and coronary heart disease, and there are lots of ways to reduce stroke risk by making lifestyle changes such as eating a balanced diet, quitting smoking and enjoying a drink in moderation.

Know your body

Learn the stroke warning signs and symptoms today. Time lost is brain lost. “If something feels different than normal like face drooping, weakness in arms or legs and more... In a situation like this, you need an immediate evaluation. 1-1-5 or  (8428) 6290 1115. “Never drive yourself to the emergency department”

 Calling 1-1-5 or 18001115 at the first symptom of stroke can help you get to the hospital in time for lifesaving stroke care.

  • Dr. Tran Chi Cuong is currently accepting new patients every Friday Morning from 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m in Neuroscience Clinic located on the second floor at City International Hospital.
  • Appointments can be made by calling (8428) 6280 3333 (ext. 8535) 

To find out more about our stroke team members and the services we provide, please contact:

City International Hospital

Stroke / Neuro-Interventional Vascular Neurology

Phone: (8428) 6280 3333, ext. 8535

?  Address: No. 3, 17A Street, Binh Tri Dong B Ward, Binh Tan Dist. (Next to AEON Mall Binh Tan). Ho Chi Minh City.

? Website: https://cih.com.vn/en/ or www.dotquy.vn

? Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.