TAIPEI (TVBS News) — A cold wave sweeping Taiwan has triggered 45 cardiac emergencies in Changhua County (彰化縣), with three deaths reported Friday (Dec. 26). The Central Weather Administration (中央氣象署) issued alerts as temperatures plunge to 10 degrees Celsius (50°F).
Taichung City recorded eight out-of-hospital cardiac arrests within 24 hours, involving patients aged 51 to 87, as temperatures dropped to 14 degrees Celsius (57.2°F) from yesterday's 19-27 degrees Celsius (66.2-80.6°F) range. The Taichung City Fire Department received 17 emergency calls during this period. Dr. Lin Wei-wen (林謂文), a cardiologist at Taiwan Adventist Hospital (臺安醫院), warns sudden cardiac death risk peaks within one to two days of cold wave arrival.
Dr. Lin emphasized staying warm during morning hours and showers to prevent cardiovascular stress during the cold wave. He recommends starting with warm water on limbs before gradually washing the lower body, torso, and head. This gradual warming technique reduces sudden temperature shock to the cardiovascular system and helps prevent cardiac emergencies during bathing.
Dr. Tseng Kuo-hsiang (曾國翔), director of the Cardiovascular Center, warns year-end feasts featuring high-fat foods significantly increase cardiovascular disease risk amid cold weather conditions. He advises managing oil and cholesterol intake during holiday celebrations. Dr. Tseng recommends wearing warm clothing outdoors and walking after meals to promote blood circulation and reduce vascular pressure.