[Health Tip] Large Temperature Differences in Transitional Seasons Pose Risks to the Heart

Blood Pressure Surges When Exposed to Cold Air
Quit Smoking, Limit Alcohol... Must Take Antihypertensive Medication

As the spring season brings larger temperature fluctuations between day and night, there is advice to pay close attention as the risk of cardiovascular disease may increase.

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Professor Jeong Hyemun of the Department of Cardiology at Kyung Hee University Hospital stated, "When exposed to cold air, the body increases heart rate to raise body temperature and speed up blood circulation, which results in a sudden rise in blood pressure." He added, "During these days with large temperature differences, sudden increases in blood pressure can worsen cardiovascular conditions or, in severe cases, cause myocardial infarction, so caution is necessary in daily life."

According to Professor Jeong, our cardiovascular system is more vulnerable to large temperature differences than to continuous cold or hot weather. This is because temperature changes cause blood vessels to constrict, leading to sudden increases in blood pressure. Especially, patients with hypertension, arteriosclerosis, hyperlipidemia, or the elderly tend to have stiffer blood vessels and thicker vessel walls, which makes their blood pressure rise more than that of healthy or younger individuals.

Therefore, if you usually have high blood pressure, it is advisable to take appropriate antihypertensive medication through regular medical check-ups. Antihypertensive drugs reduce risk by dilating blood vessels or decreasing blood volume. Since smoking and alcohol cause blood vessel constriction, quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption are recommended. When going outside, it is important to keep the body warm and maintain an appropriate indoor temperature.

Exercise is best done after the temperature has risen, and special caution is needed on days when the temperature drops sharply. However, aerobic exercises such as brisk walking, running, skipping rope, or cycling, performed 3 to 4 times a week for 30 to 45 minutes each time, help strengthen the heart and prevent cardiovascular disease. Losing weight and adopting a low-sodium diet also help lower blood pressure.

Professor Jeong emphasized, "Emergency cardiovascular diseases can lead to irreversible outcomes if delayed, so if sudden chest pain lasts more than 10 minutes or symptoms such as difficulty breathing, cold sweat, vomiting, or dizziness occur, immediate medical attention through 119 is necessary."

Professor Jeong Hyemun, Department of Cardiology, Kyung Hee University Hospital. [Photo by Kyung Hee University Hospital]