Deadly MP cold wave claims 23 lives in 12 days:Over 400 patients rush to Gwalior hospitals, beds fall short, patients made to lie on the floor

Gwalior is facing a surge in deaths linked to the cold. In the past 12 days, 23 people have died from heart attacks and strokes. The rise in cases has strained Jairogya Hospital (JAH), with beds running short and several patients being treated on the floor. In the last 15 days, 308 patients with heart attacks and 123 with strokes were admitted to JAH. Doctors say cold weather constricts blood vessels and thickens blood, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Many patients die before reaching the hospital or shortly after admission. Higher risk among younger patients, multiple blockages reported This year, most patients reaching hospitals are in the 30–50 age group. Doctors say several young patients are being diagnosed with multiple arterial blockages, a trend that was less common earlier. Cardiologists note that smoking, alcohol consumption and diabetes increase the risk of heart attacks during winter. Do not ignore pain, doctors warn Dr. Gaurav Kavi Say, Associate Professor in the Department of Cardiology, said cardiac arrest cases are being reported more frequently among younger people this season. He advised that any unusual pain in the teeth, chest or stomach should not be ignored and requires immediate medical attention. Morning walks in extreme cold can be risky Senior cardiologist Dr. Ram Rawat warned that heart patients should avoid early morning walks during extreme cold. He said sudden exposure to low temperatures can be dangerous. Doctors have advised people to stay alert during winter, keep themselves adequately covered, undergo regular health check-ups and reach a hospital immediately if they experience sudden discomfort. Higher risk of blood clots during winter Dr. Dinesh Uniyal, Head of the Department of Neurology, said blood tends to thicken during winter, increasing the risk of clot formation in veins. If such clots obstruct blood flow to the brain, the risk of stroke rises.