A sharp and sudden dip in temperatures across Patna has led to a concerning increase in serious health emergencies, with city hospitals reporting a significant rise in cases of heart attacks and brain haemorrhages. Medical authorities link this alarming trend directly to the cold weather, which triggers dangerous physiological responses.
Medical Experts Explain the Cold Weather Risk
Doctors in Patna's leading hospitals have sounded the alarm. A resident doctor from the Nalanda Medical College and Hospital (NMCH) explained the mechanism: the sudden drop in temperature causes immediate constriction of blood vessels. This leads to elevated blood pressure, putting immense strain on the cardiovascular system. Contrary to popular belief, this risk is not confined to the elderly. The doctor highlighted that people in their late 30s and 40s, especially those exposed to the early morning chill, are also being affected.
Dr Kaushal Kishore, the principal of Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH), added a crucial observation. He noted that during colder periods, people often fail to notice a gradual rise in their blood pressure, which silently contributes to these critical health events. His advice to citizens is clear: undergo regular health check-ups, avoid prolonged exposure to the cold outdoors, and ensure you keep warm to mitigate the risks.
Hospital Admissions See a Marked Increase
Officials from both PMCH and NMCH confirm a visible influx of patients suffering from cardiac arrests and cerebrovascular events over the past few days. A hospital spokesperson emphasized that this increase is noticeable across different age groups and is not limited to senior citizens. The data points to a public health situation prompted directly by the environmental conditions.
Weather Patterns and the Forecast Ahead
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Patna has issued a cold day and dense fog warning for the city and most districts of Bihar. On Saturday, Patna recorded a maximum temperature of 17.6°C and a minimum of 8.5°C, with readings dipping into single digits earlier in the week. Meteorologists attribute the current conditions to a western disturbance over North Pakistan and Punjab, coupled with a cyclonic circulation and high-speed winds over northwest India. There is some slight relief predicted, with temperatures expected to rise by 1 to 3°C in most areas over the next 48 hours.
The situation serves as a critical reminder for residents, particularly those with underlying health conditions, to take extra precautions during such cold spells. Staying informed about weather warnings, dressing in layers, and monitoring blood pressure are essential steps to prevent cold-weather health complications.
