After prolonged cold weather, temperatures in Vietnam's northern region have slightly increased but remain chilly, posing numerous health risks. Doctor Nguyen Huy Hoang, from the Vietnam Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine Association, warns about three body parts particularly vulnerable when the weather is cold.
**Heart**
When temperatures drop, peripheral blood vessels constrict, diverting blood to the body's core, which increases blood pressure. This forces the heart to work harder to maintain circulation. Extended cold periods also raise levels of fibrinogen, platelets, and red blood cells, making blood thicker and more prone to clot formation. A minor trigger, such as physical exertion or a sudden temperature change, can then become the final straw, leading to a heart attack or stroke.
The elderly are the most severely affected demographic. Statistics from various countries show that for every mot degree Celsius drop in ambient temperature, hospital admissions for stroke or heart attack rise by several percentage points. In Vietnam, hospitals report a marked increase in incidents during severe cold spells, especially among individuals with a history of hypertension and atherosclerosis.
**Lungs**
Cold weather is a risk factor for respiratory diseases, particularly when it becomes intensely cold. Cold, dry, and low-oxygen air dries out the nasal and throat mucous membranes, weakening the local immune system. This creates an environment conducive to viral and bacterial penetration.
Individuals with compromised immune systems are highly vulnerable during seasonal transitions or severe cold. This includes the elderly, children under 5 years old, and those with underlying chronic respiratory conditions such as bronchial asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, bronchiectasis, or immunodeficiency.
Cold rain combined with air pollution, especially high concentrations of fine particulate matter, poses significant health risks. The elderly and cardiovascular patients should cancel outdoor exercise plans, opting for light indoor activities in an air-filtered environment instead. If they must go outside, it is essential to keep their head, neck, chest, and limbs warm, and wear a mask to filter fine dust.
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Everyone needs to keep warm when going out to avoid catching a cold or cold shock. Photo: Hoang Giang |
**Brain**
Doctor Nguyen Tien Dung, Deputy Director of the Stroke Center at Bach Mai Hospital, explains that when the ambient temperature drops significantly, the body's natural reflex is to constrict peripheral blood vessels to minimize heat loss. This constriction narrows blood vessels, causing a sudden surge in blood pressure (hypertension). This is a primary factor leading to blood vessel rupture (cerebral hemorrhage) or the detachment of atherosclerotic plaques, which can cause blockages.
Cold weather also makes blood thicker, increasing blood viscosity and hindering circulation. If a blood clot travels to the brain and gets stuck, it can lead to cerebral infarction.
To protect health, doctors advise people with cardiovascular disease, those who have experienced a stroke, the elderly, and young children to exercise greater caution. They should limit going outside early in the morning on foggy days or when air pollution levels are high. It is important to ensure proper nutrition, get sufficient sleep, and limit stimulants.
Furthermore, managing blood pressure and underlying health conditions is crucial. Individuals with a history of hypertension must strictly adhere to prescribed medication regimens. They should never stop medication or alter dosages without medical consultation. Regular home blood pressure monitoring is advisable.
Thuy An
