Winter is the season to be merry and indulge in various festivities, but it also is the time to be cautious – about our hearts! In addition to the common cold and flu, the winters bring several possible threats to heart patients, which may even turn fatal.
As the temperature drops, paying extra attention to heart care in winter is crucial. Cold weather can increase risks for people with heart conditions, putting more strain on the cardiovascular system.
Studies show that heart attack rates can rise by up to 53% in winter compared to summer. Here, the main risk factor is biological. The cold causes blood vessels to contract. This can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of heart attack or stroke in individuals. Chest pain caused by coronary heart disease can worsen in winter when coronary arteries constrict in the cold.
It is essential for individuals to understand how winter impacts heart health and take proactive steps, whether one has a pre-existing heart issue or simply wants to prioritize heart health, is essential.
Factors that increase chances of heart attack in winters
Generally, heart attacks are more likely to occur in winter than in summer. Lower temperatures usually increase stress on the walls of the heart and reduce the blood flow to the arteries that supply blood to the heart. Heart attacks are more common in the winter due to several factors, including:
-
Reduced physical activity: People tend to exercise less in the winter, which causes weight gain, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
-
Cold weather: Cold temperatures generally narrow down the blood vessels, which may cause high blood pressure and make the heart work harder. This can lead to blood clots and increase the risk of heart attack, especially for people with existing heart conditions.
-
Seasonal Affective Disorder: The lack of sunlight in the winter can lead to depression, anxiety, and stress, which can negatively affect heart health.
-
Strenuous activity: People not used to strenuous activity, like shovelling snow, can strain their hearts.
-
Holiday eating: People often eat more rich, high-calorie foods during the holidays, which can lead to weight gain and high blood sugar.
-
Respiratory infections: The flu and cold season in the winter can stress the heart, especially for people recovering from a heart attack.
Preventive tips for winters
To prevent a heart attack in winter, focus on dressing warmly in layers, staying active with moderate exercise indoors, maintaining a healthy diet, managing stress, limiting exposure to extreme cold, and consulting your doctor if you have any concerns, especially if you have pre-existing heart conditions.
-
Stay warm: Keep your home at least 18°C, and wear layers of clothing, including a hat, scarf, and gloves. You can also use a hot water bottle or electric blanket.
-
Eat well: Eat a balanced diet with leafy greens, seasonal fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats.
-
Limit cold exposure: Avoid prolonged exposure to very cold weather.
-
Dress appropriately: Wear multiple layers of clothing, including a hat, gloves, and scarf, to keep your core temperature stable when outdoors.
-
Hydration: One must drink plenty of water and keep oneself well hydrated even in cold weather.
-
Stay active: Move around more often, even if it is not strenuous exercise. You can try at-home workouts like yoga, cardio dance, or circuit training.
-
Avoid heavy meals before going outside: Eating large meals can put additional strain on your heart in cold weather.
-
Avoid overexertion: Take frequent breaks, especially during outdoor chores like shovelling snow.
-
Manage stress: Stress usually can increase inflammation in the body, which can cause high blood pressure and lower good HDL cholesterol.
-
Monitor symptoms: Pay attention to chest pain, shortness of breath, or discomfort, and seek medical attention immediately if you experience any concerning symptoms.
-
Vitamin D supplement: Consider taking a Vitamin D supplement during winter months.
-
Consult your doctor: If you have a pre-existing heart condition, talk to your doctor about specific winter precautions.
-
Continue your treatment plan: If you have heart disease or high blood pressure, continue your treatment plan and maintain heart-healthy habits.
-
Warm up gradually: Before going outside in cold weather, warm up your muscles with light activity.
-
Quit smoking: Smoking generally raises the risk of heart disease or attack. Therefore, avoid smoking.
-
Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can negatively impact heart health.
One must be cautious about heart health and practice the above preventive tips to ensure good heart health during winter.
