Extreme cold can harm kidneys, lungs and heart, warn AIIMS doctors
New Delhi: As Delhi continues to battle severe cold wave conditions, doctors at AIIMS Delhi have warned that prolonged exposure to extreme cold can worsen existing health problems and adversely affect vital organs such as the heart, kidneys and lungs.
Dr Rajiv Narang, Head of the Department of Cardiology at AIIMS, said extremely cold weather has a direct impact on blood pressure. He explained that during winter, blood vessels constrict and people often reduce water intake, which affects blood circulation.
“Increased consumption of salty and processed foods during winter further adds to the problem. Together, these factors raise blood pressure and increase the risk of heart attacks,” Dr Narang said.
He advised people, especially those with existing heart conditions, to monitor blood pressure regularly, even at home, and ensure adequate hydration during the winter months.
Cold worsens kidney-related conditions
Highlighting the impact on kidney health, Dr Sandeep Mahajan, Professor in the Department of Nephrology at AIIMS, said blood pressure tends to rise during extreme cold, posing a serious risk for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), many of whom already suffer from hypertension.
“Strict blood pressure control is essential to slow the progression of kidney disease. CKD patients should closely monitor their blood pressure during winter and consult doctors if readings remain high,” he said.
Dr Mahajan also stressed the importance of staying physically active through indoor exercises such as yoga, which help manage blood pressure and blood sugar levels when outdoor activity is restricted due to cold weather.
He advised CKD patients to consult a dietitian or nephrologist before consuming seasonal fruits and vegetables like oranges and spinach, as these can increase potassium levels and become dangerous. Adequate hydration is particularly important for patients with kidney stones or cystic kidney disease.
Due to their higher risk of infections, vulnerable patients should also consider influenza and pneumonia vaccinations, he added.
Lung problems aggravated by cold and pollution
Dr Sanjeev Sinha, Professor in the Department of Medicine at AIIMS, warned that cold air can trigger tightening of airways, leading to bronchospasm, especially in patients with asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
“Exposure to cold air can worsen breathing problems and may even lead to pneumonia in elderly people,” he said, adding that cold wave conditions often cause upper respiratory infections marked by sore throat, nasal discharge, dry cough and fever.
Dr Sinha also pointed out that winter pollution further deteriorates lung health, particularly among COPD patients. He advised people to stay indoors as much as possible, wear masks when stepping out, dress in layers, and ensure proper coverage of the head, ears, hands and feet to protect against extreme cold.
(with inputs from agencies)
