AIIMS doctors warn severe cold waves can worsen chronic illnesses; heart, lung and kidney patients urged to take precautions

Cold wave risk isn’t just discomfort—doctors flag medical danger

As severe cold wave conditions affected parts of north India, AIIMS Delhi doctors warned that extreme cold can meaningfully worsen chronic health conditions. The medical concern is highest for people with heart disease, lung disorders, kidney problems and metabolic conditions, as cold stress can strain the body’s cardiovascular and respiratory systems and trigger complications.

The advisory gained urgency amid reports of very low temperatures across the National Capital Region. When cold intensifies, the body works harder to maintain core temperature, which can elevate blood pressure and increase the workload on the heart. For those with reduced respiratory reserve, cold air can also worsen breathing issues.

Who should be extra careful

Doctors typically classify the most vulnerable as: the elderly, young children, people with existing heart or lung disease (including asthma and COPD), those with kidney disease, diabetics, and individuals with limited ability to stay warm due to housing or occupational exposure. People recovering from illness and those with reduced mobility may also face higher risk.

Cold waves can increase the chance of hypothermia, aggravate chest pain, precipitate breathing distress, and worsen dehydration or kidney strain if people reduce fluid intake. Even mild symptoms can escalate faster in high-risk patients, making early action important.

Practical precautions recommended during severe cold

• Dress in layers; cover head, hands and feet to reduce heat loss
• Avoid sudden exposure to very cold air, especially early mornings
• Keep medicines accessible; don’t skip prescribed doses
• Stay hydrated and warm; avoid alcohol as a ‘warming’ strategy
• Seek help early for chest discomfort, breathlessness, confusion, or persistent shivering

For families, the key is to prioritise warmth and monitoring for vulnerable members, particularly at night, when temperatures drop and symptoms can be missed. Health experts stress that cold waves should be treated as a serious health hazard, not merely an inconvenience.