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Blood pressure worse in winter

Blood pressure levels have been shown to be higher in the winter months than summer, according to a new study at the University of Guadalajara's Cardiovascular Unit, Mexico.

The winter effect study

Researchers studied 100 hypertensive patients whose blood pressure was measured in a doctors office each season. They found that 32% of patients had their blood pressure controlled in winter months, compared with 50% in spring and summer.

Where the study took place, Guadalajara, temperatures can range from 6deg C (42.8 F) in winter to a high of 34deg C (93.2 F) in summer.

Average blood pressure was higher in autumn (142.9/83.5 mm Hg) and winter (141.2/84.1 mm Hg) than in spring (133.6/80.7 mm Hg) or summer (137/80.8 mm Hg).

Conclusions

Lead researcher, Dr. Fonseca-Reyes said, "If patients had shown previously to have their blood pressure controlled, it might be advisable to increase temporarily the dose of drugs during the cold months."

Researchers suggested that patients should monitor their blood pressure all year round to ensure blood pressure is controlled throughout all the seasons.

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