look news india
While the winter season brings with it cold winds and low temperatures, it can prove to be a challenging time for patients suffering from neurological diseases. Cold has a profound effect on the nervous system, which can worsen symptoms of conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s, migraines, and neuropathies. It is important for patients suffering from these diseases and their caregivers to know how to deal with these effects of cold.
Dr. Vineet Banga, Director of Neurology, Fortis Hospital (Faridabad), explains that cold weather can increase muscle stiffness and stiffness for multiple sclerosis patients, making it difficult to walk and perform daily tasks. Cold also slows blood circulation, which can make symptoms like numbness and tingling worse.
Parkinson’s disease and cold
In patients with Parkinson’s disease, cold worsens motor symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and slowness of movement (bradykinesia). Cold weather also affects the body’s ability to regulate temperature, increasing discomfort.
Danger may increase for migraine sufferers
Migraine sufferers may experience increased headaches during the winter season. Sudden changes in temperature, cold air, and use of heaters cause vascular changes in the brain, which can trigger migraine.
Peripheral Neuropathy and Cold:
This problem affecting the nerves of hands and feet increases with cold. Cold temperatures slow blood flow, causing pain, numbness, and increased sensitivity.
Impact on mental health:
Cold weather affects not only physical health but also mental health. Lack of sunlight can worsen seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression.
Preventive measures:
Patients are advised to wear warm clothes, keep the room warm and do regular exercise to avoid cold. Also, make changes to your medicines and diet as per your doctor’s advice.