New Delhi, 04 May 2025: As temperatures soar across India, medical professionals are reporting a concerning increase in cases of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST), a rare but potentially life-threatening condition characterized by blood clots in the brain’s venous sinuses. This surge is particularly evident in regions experiencing intense heatwaves, such as Pune and Mumbai.
In Pune, neurologists have observed a significant uptick in CVST cases. Dr. Nilesh Palasdeokar, a senior neurologist at Ruby Hall Clinic, reported treating 15 to 20 CVST patients in April alone, with three currently in intensive care. “Just today, I saw three CVST patients, all young and previously healthy,” he noted. One case involved a 40-year-old petrol pump worker who, after prolonged sun exposure, initially experienced headaches and fatigue, which escalated to seizures within two days.
Similarly, Dr. Sudhir Kothari, head of neurology at Poona Hospital, confirmed a spike in heat and dehydration-related CVST cases, stating, “We typically see around one case of CVST every month, but recorded five cases last month alone.” Jupiter Hospital’s neurology department also reported seven such cases in the same period.
The primary culprits behind this surge are prolonged heat exposure and severe dehydration. Dehydration reduces blood volume, leading to thicker blood and a higher likelihood of clot formation. Additionally, poor nutritional status, particularly low Vitamin B12 and elevated homocysteine levels, can further increase the risk of CVST.
In Mumbai, doctors have echoed similar concerns. Dr. Aadil Chagla, head of neurosurgery at KEM Hospital, noted that excessive dehydration could lead to an increase in red blood cell concentration, resulting in blood clots. “We have received around 10 such patients so far,” he said, emphasizing the severity of the condition.
CVST symptoms often begin subtly, with headaches, fatigue, and dizziness, which are frequently mistaken for general summer discomfort. However, the condition can rapidly progress to seizures, loss of consciousness, or paralysis. Timely medical intervention, including intravenous fluids, blood thinners, and anticoagulants, is crucial for recovery. In severe cases, surgical treatment may be necessary to address significant brain swelling.
Health experts urge residents, especially those working outdoors or traveling to hotter regions, to adopt heat-protection measures. Key precautions include staying hydrated, avoiding sun exposure between 11 AM and 4 PM, limiting alcohol consumption, and monitoring Vitamin B12 and homocysteine levels. Despite its severity, CVST is treatable when caught early, and doctors encourage immediate medical attention for new or persistent headaches during heatwave conditions.
Pune Mirror
As climate change continues to drive extreme temperatures, awareness and preventive measures become increasingly vital to safeguard public health against heat-related ailments like CVST.
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