As Temperatures Drop, How to Ensure Proper Blood Circulation?

The Korea Meteorological Administration forecasted that temperatures will drop further after rain that hastens autumn arrives ahead of the weekend. From October, when the season changes, through winter, it is necessary to pay closer attention to health management due to low temperatures and dry indoor environments.

Most people associate seasonal change illnesses with respiratory diseases such as colds and flu, but surprisingly, attention should also be paid to blood circulation.

When it is hot, blood vessels dilate to release heat, allowing blood circulation to flow well. However, when it is cold, blood vessels constrict, narrowing the vessels and hindering blood flow, which can lead to cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. This can be a significant risk factor for patients with chronic diseases such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes.

To sustain life, blood divides from the heart arteries into smaller vessels called arterioles, which connect to even smaller vessels called capillaries. These have very thin walls that supply the body’s tissues with necessary nutrients and oxygen. Additionally, carbon dioxide and waste products are returned through veins to the heart via the blood vessels.

The process of blood flowing continuously throughout the body is called blood circulation.

Circulatory disorder. [Image source=Clipart Korea]

Kim Byung-su, head of the Cardiovascular Center at Daedong Hospital, explained, “Blood vessels respond sensitively to cold weather. In cases of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, or obesity, blood circulation disorders are more likely to occur than in others and can lead to cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, so management is necessary from now on.”

He added, “If blood circulation is poor, symptoms such as numbness or swelling in the hands or feet, frequent cramps, chest pain, or dizziness may appear, so it is advised to get a diagnosis from a cardiology specialist at the early stage of symptoms.”

To manage blood circulation from the changing seasons through winter, care should be taken to avoid sudden exposure to cold temperatures during daily life, such as opening windows immediately after waking or going from a warm indoor environment to a cold outdoor one.

Especially for seniors aged 65 and older, who have reduced vascular elasticity, more attention is needed. They should open windows or start outdoor activities after moving their bodies to some extent and focus on keeping warm.

It is good to know your usual blood pressure, and if you are in a high-risk group, keep a blood pressure monitor at home to check regularly. If you have underlying conditions such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or diabetes, continue treatment through consultation with medical professionals, and if overweight, begin managing to reach an appropriate weight.

Exercise helps promote smooth blood circulation, strengthens the heart and physical fitness, and aids in managing weight and blood pressure. However, when temperatures are low or there is a large temperature difference between indoors and outdoors, it is better to exercise indoors rather than outdoors. Exercise type and intensity should be adjusted flexibly according to individual fitness and circumstances.

If elderly or chronic patients must engage in outdoor activities, it is advisable to be accompanied by a caregiver to respond to emergencies and avoid isolated places.

Adequate hydration and healthy eating habits are fundamental to blood circulation and health management. Nicotine in cigarettes thickens the blood and harms vascular health, so quitting smoking is recommended.

Sometimes people rely on folk remedies or supplements when blood circulation is poor, but to distinguish whether it is a simple blood circulation disorder or another disease, it is essential to get a diagnosis from a cardiology specialist and receive appropriate treatment.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.