Infographic explaining why people are more likely to have a stroke during winter. The central image shows a human head with a brain clot. Surrounding visuals illustrate six main causes: higher blood pressure (cold narrows blood vessels), thicker blood (reduced water intake), reduced blood flow to the brain in cold temperatures, less physical activity in winter, existing conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or heart disease, and cold-related infections that increase clot risk. The infographic also notes that staying warm, hydrated, active, and monitoring blood pressure can reduce stroke risk

People are more likely to have a stroke during winter due to several reasons. Here are the main causes explained simply:

Why strokes are more common in winter

  1. Increase in blood pressure
    • Cold weather causes blood vessels to narrow
    • This raises blood pressure
    • High blood pressure is the leading cause of stroke
  2. Blood becomes thicker
    • People sweat less and often drink less water in winter
    • This makes the blood thicker
    • Thick blood increases the risk of clots, which can cause a stroke
  3. Constriction of blood vessels
    • Cold temperatures reduce blood flow
    • Less oxygen reaches the brain and heart
  4. Reduced physical activity
    • People tend to exercise less in cold weather
    • This can lead to weight gain and higher cholesterol
    • Both increase stroke risk
  5. Existing health conditions
    • People with high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease are at higher risk
    • Winter can worsen these conditions
  6. Cold-related infections
    • Flu, pneumonia, and other infections are more common in winter
    • Infections cause inflammation, increasing the chance of blood clots

How to reduce stroke risk in winter

  • Check blood pressure regularly
  • Drink enough water
  • Stay warm, especially the head and neck
  • Do light but regular exercise
  • Avoid smoking and excessive salt
  • Take prescribed medicines regularly

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