ISLAMABAD: Health experts have warned that the monsoon season may increase the risk of stroke among people with underlying health conditions, urging vulnerable individuals to remain vigilant and seek immediate medical care if symptoms develop.
Although the rainy season brings relief from intense summer heat, neurologists say sudden changes in temperature, increased humidity and a higher risk of infections can place additional stress on the body, particularly among people with high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol or heart disease.
According to experts, fluctuations in weather conditions during the monsoon can disrupt the body’s natural regulatory system, leading to unstable blood pressure in some individuals. They say this can increase the likelihood of stroke, especially among those with existing cardiovascular or cerebrovascular diseases.
Medical professionals also noted that changes in daily routines during the rainy season, including reduced physical activity, disturbed sleep patterns and irregular use of prescribed medications, may further increase health risks.
Doctors stressed that recognising the early signs of a stroke is crucial, as timely treatment can save lives and significantly reduce the risk of permanent disability. They advise the public to remember the BE FAST warning signs, which include a sudden loss of balance, changes in vision, facial drooping, weakness in an arm or leg, difficulty speaking and the need to seek emergency medical attention without delay if any of these symptoms appear.
Health experts further advised high-risk individuals to monitor their blood pressure and blood sugar levels regularly, take prescribed medications on time and remain physically active despite the rainy weather. They also recommended maintaining a balanced diet, limiting salt intake, avoiding tobacco use and staying well hydrated to reduce the risk of stroke.
Experts emphasized that the monsoon season itself does not directly cause stroke. Instead, they said the greatest danger lies in neglecting existing medical conditions. Proper management of hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol and heart disease, along with a healthy lifestyle, can significantly lower the risk of stroke and other serious complications.
Read also: Monsoon rains claim 126 lives, leave 404 injured across Pakistan, NDMA
