Large Daily Temperature Fluctuations: A Hidden Risk to Our Health

The joy of the heat subsiding is short-lived, and as the season changes, the large daily temperature difference can easily weaken the immune system, making it easy to catch a cold or allergic disease. At the same time, the risk of stroke increases as blood vessels contract and expand repeatedly.

According to a domestic study, for every 1 degree increase in daily temperature difference, the risk of acute stroke increases by 2.4%, and for those over 65 years of age in particular, it increases by 2.7%. In other words, on days when the daily temperature difference is 10 degrees or higher, the risk of stroke increases by 20-30%. The medical community is urging caution, as it is known that patients with high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity have a stroke risk up to 5 times higher than the general population.

Professor Jeong Jae-hoon of the Department of Preventive Medicine at Korea University College of Medicine said, “Large daily temperature ranges are well-known factors that increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as stroke,” adding, “It is important for those around the patient to quickly recognize symptoms such as slurred speech or changes in consciousness, which are warning signs of a stroke.”

He continued, “It is known that the golden time for stroke is 4 hours and 30 minutes, but this is literally only the minimum time, and you should visit a hospital and receive clot-dissolving medication as soon as possible.” He advised, “The most important thing is to avoid exposure to rapid temperature changes, and it is especially important to not exercise in the morning and to be active in a stable temperature.” In particular, he emphasized daily life prevention methods such as dressing warmly in the morning and wearing a hat.

If you witness a stroke patient, immediately call 119 and quickly go to the emergency room. Even if you can use your own car, it is best to use an ambulance with emergency equipment. Until the ambulance arrives, lay the patient down comfortably and turn the head to the side when vomiting. If the patient is unconscious, do not force water or medicine.

Preventing and Managing Cerebrovascular Diseases

The following are the methods for preventing and managing cerebrovascular diseases such as stroke suggested by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency.

• Smoking and drinking in moderation
• A healthy, low-salt diet
• Exercise for more than 30 minutes a day
• Maintain appropriate weight and waist circumference
• Managing stress
• Regular blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol measurements
• Patients with high blood pressure and diabetes should actively receive treatment