Kolkata: Higher pollution level in winter, resurfacing of some viruses, an increase in stress hormones and a surge in blood pressure could cast a negative spell on the health of elderly people if proper care was not taken, cautioned doctors, pointing out that senior citizens with compromised immune system was easily affected and that deaths among elderly were also higher in the winter than usual.
"As winter approaches, the elderly population faces increased health risks, often leading to hospitalisations and, in severe cases, fatalities. COPD exacerbations and chest infections are common, causing breathing difficulties and frequent hospital admissions. The cold also increases stress hormones, like adrenaline, elevating the risk of heart attacks and strokes, especially in individuals with existing conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol," said Joydeep Ghosh, internal medicine consultant at Fortis Anandapur. Doctors advised using adequate warm clothes, heaters and well-ventilated rooms, in addition to vaccines against pneumonia and influenza, as preventive measures.
"Regular health check-ups and visit to doctors, even for a minor illness, are important to safeguard the elderly population in winter," said Rahul Jain, internal medicine specialist at Belle Vue Clinic, pointing out the hospital had been receiving a stream of elderly patients with chest infections over the past two weeks. "Reasons are manifold, including influenza, rhinoviruses and bacterial pneumonia. Pollution also aggravates health conditions, such as asthma and COPD. Very cold weather can cause a surge in blood pressure, heart attacks and strokes due to the narrowing of blood vessels," said Jain.
Doctors said reduced sweating during winter could lead to fluid overload in individuals with compromised kidney or heart function. Coupled with a tendency to drink less water, this posed risks to the elderly with underlying cardiac or renal issues, they said. "Elderly people must take regular medications, avoid outdoor activities in early mornings when the air quality is poor and consider taking vaccines for influenza and pneumonia. Maintaining a balanced diet tailored to existing health conditions and monitoring fluid intake are equally critical," added Ghosh.
Soumya Sengupta, pulmonologist at Charnock Hospital, also warned senior citizens with COPD, asthma or bronchitis against morning walks owing to higher air pollution. "Those with weaker lungs are more susceptible to a viral attacks at this time of the year. Children and the elderly are the most vulnerable groups. They need to cover themselves up properly and avoid temperature fluctuations," Sengupta said.
(Inputs by Prithvijit Mitra)