What is blood pressure and why does it rise in winter?
Find out why blood pressure rises in winter, how it can affect you, what the warning signs are and what preventive steps can you take.
What we refer to as blood pressure is the force that the heart exerts on the arteries in order to pump blood to the different organs of the body. According to the Spanish Heart Foundation, normal blood pressure has a maximum systolic pressure of 120-129 mmHg, and a diastolic pressure between 80 and 84 mmHg. Lower figures can also be considered normal, as long as they are not accompanied by any symptoms. It is necessary to take into account both values, as the first measurement is obtained when the heart contracts (maximum) and the second during relaxation (minimum).
Blood pressure varies throughout the cardiac cycle and, although you may not be aware of this, it is also susceptible to seasonal changes. This is because in winter the blood vessels narrow, so the heart needs to exert more force to get blood through the veins and arteries. During the summer, the opposite is true; the vasodilating effect of the heat causes blood pressure to drop, which can lead to dizziness and fainting. Changes in temperature, atmospheric pressure, overcast weather and humidity all affect blood pressure, particularly among people over 65 years of age, who must also take into account other weather events such as storms.
What is hypertension?
Hypertension occurs when blood pressure levels are persistently elevated. This puts a strain on the heart, which has to increase its muscle mass and endurance, and this can lead to complications such as angina pectoris or coronary insufficiency and, in the worst case, an aneurysm. The increase in size is very detrimental, as it requires more blood, while the blood supply remains the same. According to the World Health Organisation, 1280 million adults aged 30 to 79 years suffer from this disease.
People who have a prior diagnosis or a family history of hypertension, have one or more risk factors or are over 65 years of age should monitor their blood pressure seasonally and be especially cautious during the winter. Symptoms that may indicate an increase in blood pressure include severe headache, nausea or blurred vision, among others. If you suspect you may be suffering from elevated blood pressure, you should see a medical professional immediately.
Ultimately, we must bear in mind that there is an inverse relationship between ambient temperature and blood pressure. Patients who have previously been diagnosed with hypertension should take this fact into account and monitor their blood pressure regularly. If changes in measurements are noticed, it is very important to see a medical professional to assess the situation and adjust medication if necessary.
