In
winter, more and more elderly people from cold regions choose to travel to
Hainan to start a "migratory bird-style" winter life. However,
crossing multiple climatic zones in a short period of time, with temperature
differences of up to 30℃ or more, can easily induce severe fluctuations in
blood pressure, significantly increasing the risk of cardiovascular and
cerebrovascular diseases such as stroke and acute myocardial infarction.
Professor Zheng Yin, Vice President of Hainan Cancer Hospital and Hainan Chengmei Hospital, as well as a cardiovascular and cerebrovascular expert, reminds that elderly people have poor vascular elasticity and weak body regulation ability. Sudden temperature changes, such as extreme cold or heat, can stimulate severe vasoconstriction, leading to a surge in blood pressure and increasing the risk of myocardial infarction and stroke.
How does temperature difference "deal a fatal blow" to blood vessels
Clinical studies show that 30%-40% of "migratory elderly" suffer from basic diseases such as cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, hypertension, and nearly half are at risk of atherosclerosis. "Migrating south in winter often involves crossing multiple climatic zones, with temperature differences exceeding 30℃. Sudden temperature changes can easily lead to blood pressure fluctuations, significantly increasing the risk of acute cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events."
Professor Zheng Yin stated that the risks faced by elderly migratory birds during their winter migration mainly concentrate on three aspects.
Firstly, there's the "roller coaster" effect of blood pressure triggered by temperature differences. When traversing multiple climatic zones in a short period of time, temperature differences exceeding 30℃ can cause blood vessels to switch violently between contraction and dilation, significantly increasing the burden on the heart and blood vessels.
Research indicates that the first week after migration is an acute stress period for blood pressure fluctuations, with some elderly individuals experiencing systolic blood pressure fluctuations exceeding 30mmHg. Among these, 78.47% of watershed-type cerebral infarctions are associated with sudden drops in blood pressure, and 97.7% of cases occur within four days of arriving at the destination. Professor Zheng Yin emphasized that a temperature difference of ≥30℃ in a short period of time is the core factor contributing to this risk, while situations such as insufficient water intake during the journey and increased sweating upon arrival can further exacerbate the risk.
Meanwhile, when the temperature difference exceeds 9.4℃, the risk of acute myocardial infarction also increases significantly. Data shows that the average onset time for coronary heart disease patients who are "migratory birds" in Hainan is only (3.15±2.67) days, and the onset time is concentrated around 3 days after arrival. The prognosis for such patients is often poor.
Do three things well to stabilize the "rhythm" of blood vessels
"To avoid vascular irritation, the most important thing is to reduce the stress response caused by temperature differences," Professor Zheng Yin emphasized. Migratory birds, especially the elderly ones, need to focus on these three points:
I. Gradually adapt to temperature differences
Upon arrival in Hainan, try to minimize outdoor activities for the first 3-5 days. Once your body adapts to the indoor temperature, gradually increase outdoor activities, starting with 10-15 minutes of outdoor time each time. When going out, wear layered clothing that allows for adjustments based on temperature. Special attention should be paid to keeping the head, neck, and hands warm, as these areas are rich in blood vessels and are most prone to vasoconstriction when exposed to cold.
II. Strictly control indicators of underlying diseases
Patients with hypertension should measure their blood pressure at a fixed time every day, take medication regularly as prescribed by the doctor, and should not reduce or discontinue medication without authorization due to environmental warming. Patients with hyperlipidemia and diabetes should undergo regular reexaminations of blood lipids and blood glucose to avoid fluctuations in indicators caused by dietary changes (such as more sweet and greasy foods in the south). Professor Zheng Yin reminds that if blood pressure remains persistently above 160/100mmHg, or if there are frequent dizziness and chest tightness, it is necessary to seek medical attention in a timely manner to adjust the treatment plan.
III. Maintain stable living habits
After relocation, try to maintain your original daily routine and avoid staying up late. Eat a light diet, with an emphasis on fresh fruits and vegetables and high-quality protein, and reduce intake of foods high in salt, sugar, and fat. Avoid overeating and overdrinking. Engage in moderate exercise every day, such as slow walking and practicing Tai Chi, and avoid strenuous exercise. Choose to exercise after 10 am (when the temperature is higher).
These first aid essentials should be kept in mind
Professor Zheng Yin emphasized that migrant elderly individuals and their family members need to keep in mind the early signs of myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke, and strive to "recognize early and provide prompt emergency treatment". Typical symptoms of MI include crushing chest pain behind the sternum that persists for more than 5 minutes without relief, and may also be accompanied by left shoulder pain, cold sweat, and nausea. Stroke is characterized by unilateral limb numbness and weakness, slurred speech, blurred vision, and severe headache.
Once the aforementioned symptoms appear, it is imperative to immediately dial 120 and refrain from self-medication or waiting. While awaiting rescue, have the patient lie down and ensure unobstructed breathing. If the patient is unconscious, avoid moving them arbitrarily. Additionally, it is recommended that elderly migrant birds carry their basic medical records, a list of commonly used medications, and contact information of family members with them, facilitating doctors to quickly understand the condition during emergency treatment.
Professor Zheng Yin reminds that during the migration process of elderly migratory birds, it is recommended to strictly follow the "Chinese Expert Consensus on Clinical Management of Blood Pressure Variability Related to Elderly Migration (2025 Edition)", scientifically cope with climate and dietary differences, and take full protective measures throughout the journey, so as to ensure that "poetry and distant places" travel alongside health.
Expert Introduction
Zheng Yin, Chief Physician
Vice President, Professor
Master's supervisor, scholar studying in the United States
Outstanding experts with exceptional contributions in Hainan Province
Medical expertise:
Specialized in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and health management of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases as well as geriatric diseases. Provide cardiac rehabilitation for patients with hypertension, coronary heart disease, arrhythmia, heart failure, metabolic syndrome, post-stent implantation, and post-bypass surgery, including guidance on medication, exercise, nutrition, and sleep disorders.