Whenever most people tend to think of winter related health issues, the first things that come to their mind are probably issues like dry skin, respiratory infections, hypothermia, and pollution or smog related issues. These issues, while not trivial, have easy solutions like moisturizing, masking, wearing winter clothes, working from home etc. However, the real health challenges posed by winter run deeper and can cause serious health issues that endanger life itself.
For instance, winter can cause cardiovascular issues, due to multiple reasons, but primarily due to cold temperatures raising blood pressure and stressing the cardiovascular system, potentially leading to heart attacks, especially in those with underlying risks. Winter can also be hard on those prone to arthritis, joint stiffness and muscle aches, as cold weather exacerbates joint pain in people with arthritis, and it causes reduced blood circulation resulting in muscle stiffness.
