TAIPEI (TVBS News) — A cold wave has swept across Taiwan, dropping temperatures significantly, with Chiayi City's East District recording the lowest at 9.6 C on Friday (Dec. 20). Expert reminded that the chilly weather not only brings discomfort but also raises the risk of sudden cardiac death, especially for those with undiagnosed ischemic heart disease.
The Central Weather Administration (CWA, 中央氣象署) issued low-temperature warnings for 10 counties and cities earlier that day. Wu Chang-teng (吳昌騰), a pediatrician at Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital (林口長庚醫院), highlighted a Finnish study linking cold fronts to sudden cardiac death from ischemic heart disease.
Wu shared that early diagnosis is crucial in reducing cardiac arrest risks during cold spells. Medications like aspirin, beta-blockers, and nitrates can offer protection by inhibiting platelet activation and coagulation, regulating autonomic nervous system activity, and dilating coronary arteries.
Cold weather increases the risk of ischemic cardiac arrest due to several factors. It activates the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, potentially causing arrhythmias. It also rapidly raises blood pressure, heightening the risk of coronary plaque rupture. Moreover, cold conditions increase blood viscosity, coagulation factor concentration, and decrease anticoagulant factors, raising the risk of thrombosis.
Wu noted that exposure to cold may lead to coronary artery spasms and increase the heart's oxygen demand. This extra stress can exacerbate conditions in patients with coronary atherosclerosis and severe stenosis. He advised the public to stay warm, hydrate, and maintain regular exercise to protect heart health during the cold winter months.
