Why are brain hemorrhages more common in winter? Learn prevention steps

Author: Dr. Zhang. Reviewer: [Name]. Curator: [Name]. Production Information: [Organization Name]. Title: Why are brain hemorrhages more common in winter? Learn prevention steps. Introduction: Winter raises cerebral hemorrhage risks; stay warm, hydrate, and maintain routines to reduce chances of this health issue.

Every winter, hospitals see a noticeable increase in patients with brain hemorrhage, and this is not a coincidence! By understanding a few key reasons, you can learn how to scientifically prevent it. It is advisable to share this information with those close to you for a collective understanding.

The core cause of cerebral hemorrhage is the rupture of brain blood vessels. The winter environment, along with physiological changes in the human body, contributes to multiple factors that increase the risk of vessel rupture.

Reason one: Sudden drop in temperature. The sudden drop in temperature serves as the primary direct stimulus for blood vessels. Blood vessels act much like elastic rubber tubes; when the temperature in the surrounding environment decreases sharply, the body initiates a self-protective mechanism to maintain core temperature, characterized by sympathetic nerve excitement that leads to constriction of vessels throughout the body.

For middle-aged and elderly individuals with inherently poor vascular elasticity, or those suffering from underlying conditions such as hypertension and arteriosclerosis, vascular constriction can cause a significant increase in pressure on vessel walls. It is like suddenly increasing pressure in an aging rubber hose, making it prone to rupture and potentially triggering a brain hemorrhage. Data indicates that when temperatures fall below 10°C, the incidence of cerebral hemorrhage significantly rises; the lower the temperature, the higher the risk.

Reason two: Increased blood viscosity. The increased blood viscosity during winter is also a significant factor. Cold temperatures result in reduced sweating and lower water intake, leading to insufficient hydration in the blood, which thickens it. Thickened blood slows blood flow and increases the likelihood of clot formation, thereby elevating resistance in blood vessels and causing the heart to work harder to pump blood, further raising blood pressure.

As blood pressure continues to rise, it exerts persistent pressure on already fragile cerebral blood vessels, especially the small arteries in the brain. The walls of these small arteries are quite thin, and extended exposure to high pressure can easily lead to small aneurysms. When combined with the strain from increased blood viscosity in winter, this may result in the rupture of these aneurysms, consequently leading to cerebral hemorrhage.

Reason three: The significant temperature difference between indoors and outdoors. Transitioning suddenly from a warm indoor environment to cold outdoor air, or entering a well-heated room from outside, causes blood vessels to undergo rapid fluctuations of "contraction-expansion" due to drastic temperature changes. The elasticity of blood vessels resembles that of a rubber band; repeated rapid stretching and contracting can accelerate aging and lead to significant fluctuations in blood pressure.

Sudden spikes and drops in blood pressure are more hazardous than persistent high blood pressure because they can directly affect weak areas in the brain's blood vessels, potentially causing rupture. This risk increases significantly in the morning when the body shifts from a state of low blood pressure during sleep to higher levels. Coupled with exposure to cold air upon exiting the home, this time frame is viewed as a "high-risk period" for cerebral hemorrhage.

Reason four: Changes in lifestyle habits. Winter typically reduces outdoor activity, and many individuals tend to remain seated for prolonged periods and stay up late. The colder weather encourages increased consumption of high-fat and high-sodium foods. Prolonged sitting and lack of exercise can lead to weight gain and elevated blood lipids, exacerbating arterial sclerosis; a high-sodium diet causes water and sodium retention, further elevating blood pressure; late-night activities keep the body in a fatigued state, decreasing immunity while impacting proper vascular regulation. These combined factors lead to a substantial increase in the risk of cerebral hemorrhage.

How to prevent scientifically? The central focus is on "maintaining stable vascular conditions and controlling underlying diseases."

Firstly, keeping warm is crucial, especially by protecting the head and neck. When going outside, wearing a hat and scarf helps prevent direct exposure to cold air.

Secondly, take care to drink water regularly; even when not feeling thirsty, individuals should consume small amounts frequently to maintain adequate blood volume.

It is also vital to avoid extreme temperature differences between indoors and outdoors. When preparing to go outside, pausing briefly at the door can allow the body to acclimate to the temperature change before stepping out.

For those with hypertension, diabetes, or arteriosclerosis, it is critical to adhere to medical advice, maintain regular medicine schedules, monitor blood pressure and blood sugar levels consistently, and refrain from altering or ceasing medication without consulting a physician.

Lastly, during winter, engaging in moderate indoor exercise such as brisk walking or tai chi, maintaining a light diet, and ensuring adequate sleep are essential for health. Follow Dr. Zhang to discuss health matters comprehensively.