As temperatures drop, doctors across Kolkata typically see a noticeable rise in cardiac-related hospital visits. This isn't a coincidence — cold weather has a direct, measurable effect on how the heart and blood vessels function.
When the body is exposed to cold, blood vessels naturally narrow (constrict) to help conserve heat. This process, while helpful for temperature regulation, also increases blood pressure and makes the heart work harder to pump blood through narrower pathways. For people with existing heart conditions, this added strain can be significant.
Cold weather is also linked to thicker blood, which slightly raises the risk of clot formation. Combined with reduced physical activity that often comes with winter months, and heavier, richer festive-season meals, the season creates a combination of factors that can quietly increase cardiac risk.
The good news is that most of these risks can be managed with a few consistent habits: dressing warmly (especially covering the head and chest during early mornings), avoiding sudden exposure to cold immediately after waking up, staying physically active indoors, keeping salt intake in check, and not skipping prescribed heart medication during the colder months.
If you or a family member has a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes, winter is a good time to schedule a check-in with your cardiologist — even if you're feeling fine. Many cardiac events happen without obvious warning signs, and a quick review of your medication and vitals can make a meaningful difference.