Overview
- The India Meteorological Department continues cold-wave alerts for the NCR, with Delhi’s minimum temperature recorded at 3.2°C on January 12.
- AIIMS cardiologists say cold-driven vessel narrowing and lower hydration raise blood pressure and heart attack risk, advising regular home BP checks, hydration and uninterrupted cardiac medications.
- Experts warn that cold air and winter pollution can trigger bronchospasm and worsen asthma and COPD, recommending layered clothing, masks, staying indoors when possible and avoiding early-morning outdoor activity.
- Nephrologists caution that winter BP spikes can accelerate kidney disease and advise strict monitoring, tailored diets to manage potassium, adequate hydration and influenza and pneumococcal vaccines for high-risk patients.
- AIIMS calls for structured cold action plans to protect vulnerable groups, highlighting elevated risks for the elderly, infants, and people with diabetes, CKD or chronic lung disease.