In this survey carried out in France, researchers analyzed seasonal variation in blood pressure in 8000 adults aged above 65 over two years and the results showed significant seasonal variation in the high blood pressure readings, from 23.8% in the summers to 33.4% in the winter. These readings showed a rise in both the systolic and diastolic or top and bottom numbers and the average systolic blood pressure remained 5 points higher in the winter than in summer. Researcher Annick Alperovitch MD of Institut National de la Sante et de Recherche Medicale, Paris, says it is understandable that these temperature variations are most common in people of older age because their immunity levels are weaker and therefore are particularly susceptible to various health troubles and diseases. He also adds "Mechanisms that could explain the association between blood pressure and temperature remain undetermined." Reasons for this variation though can be linked to the release of a hormone called catecholamine, which increases blood pressure by speeding the heart rate and decreasing the responsiveness of the blood vessels and the individual’s psychological state and stress levels.
This study can help immensely in explaining seasonal variation in case of death from a sudden stroke or a blood vessel rupture as the risk of stroke is highest in the elderly. Your health is in your hands therefore by paying attention towards a proper lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise people in the advancing years can at least reduce the chances of a contingency if not totally avoid it.
Photograph by Joanne Cleland.