Although heart attacks are concerning in and of itself, did you know that statistics indicate that heart attacks and strokes occur more frequently in the winter? Over the years, numerous investigations have demonstrated that this number is most definitely not an anomaly, which has prompted additional research.
Why does winter bring with it an increased risk of heart attacks? What might be causing this event, and how can you reduce your chances of it happening? The good news is that numerous medical professionals and specialists in cardiology have proposed explanations for this increase since its discovery. Let’s first examine the problem and then consider preventative measures for this health concern.
How Does Cold Weather Affect the Heart and Cardiovascular System?
Your heart is impacted by the cold in a few different ways. The cold causes physiological alterations in your circulatory system. In addition, you could opt to stay home during the winter to unwind and get warm rather than being as active. As a result, you might not be moving your heart and body as much.
What can happen to your heart in the chilly winter months is as follows:
- Narrowed blood vessels
Your blood vessels often expand up during physical activity or exercise to provide your body with the additional oxygen it needs to perform its functions. However, blood vessels constrict in the cold, making it more difficult for blood to reach the heart.
If you already have plaque accumulation in your blood arteries, this is very worrying. Blood clots more easily in veins that are already partially clogged by plaque accumulation, making it more likely that blood will not reach your heart and other parts of your body. This might trigger a heart attack.
Additionally, studies have shown that a change in temperature from warm to freezing both exacerbates and weakens the effects of plaque accumulation and increases the risks of heart problems.
- Increased blood pressure
Your blood vessels often expand up during physical activity or exercise to provide your body with the additional oxygen it needs to perform its functions. However, blood vessels constrict in the cold, making it more difficult for blood to reach the heart.
If you already have plaque accumulation in your blood arteries, this is very worrying. Blood clots more easily in veins that are already partially clogged by plaque accumulation, making it more likely that blood will not reach your heart and other parts of your body. This might trigger a heart attack.
Additionally, studies have shown that a change in temperature from warm to freezing both exacerbates and weakens the effects of plaque accumulation.
- Increased pulse rate
Has the cold caused you to notice a quicker heartbeat? Your heart rate can be impacted by the cold because a lower body temperature forces your heart to beat faster in an effort to keep you warm. Although an elevated heart rate does not indicate a heart attack or heart illness, it may indicate that your heart is overtaxed and that you need to take a break.
- Winter lifestyle choices that increase your risk of heart disease
When it’s five degrees below zero outside, it’s probably not surprising that most people would prefer to curl up on the couch with a blanket than take a long winter walk. However, we’re also more inclined to consume more alcohol and indulge in fatty comfort food—oh, those Christmas cocktails. Additionally, these options aren’t very heart-healthy if moderation is abandoned.
Combining these habits can raise your risk of heart disease and heart attacks as well as cause unfavorable changes in blood pressure, cholesterol, and weight.
How to reduce the risk of heart attacks in the winter
- We are aware that your sidewalk won’t clear itself, of course. Furthermore, you want to make the most of your season pass at the ski resort in the Lutsen Mountains, right? In order to avoid heart attacks during winter, consider the following advice on maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle:
- If you go outside, dress in layers according to the activity and the weather. When you become more active, you can take off layers by dressing in layers. While you don’t want to overheat, you still want to be warm. It’s a good idea to take off a layer and take a break to cool down if you start to perspire.
- Invest in a snow blower and change your shoveling routine, particularly if your driveway is long. However, leave before the snow has a chance to accumulate if you need to shovel. Next, go cautiously and in brief bursts.
- Let yourself off the hook – Hire a kid from the neighborhood, if you can. It’s especially a good idea to delegate the obligation if you have heart disease, have already experienced a heart attack, or don’t engage in a lot of annual physical activity.
- When exercising, take frequent breaks to drink water and stay hydrated. The body finds it more difficult to maintain body temperature when dehydrated, which also facilitates blood clotting.
- Start gently when exercising outside in the winter, even if you’re in good shape, to give your body time to acclimate to the lower temperatures. Once you’re outside, try some simple exercise like running in place or stretches. Walk inside the mall or sign up for a gym if you don’t want to bundle up for an outside stroll.
- If you are known to have a heart condition, exercise extra caution. Heart diseases and cold temperatures don’t mix well. You might want to take it easy if you have heart disease or have already experienced a heart attack. You can prepare for winter and acquire confidence in your ability to exercise for heart health by working with a doctor.
- Restrict your intake of alcohol and coffee because they raise blood pressure. Thus, be mindful of how much alcohol you consume before going outside.
- Give up smoking and vaping. Tobacco products can raise blood pressure and lead to the accumulation of plaque. One of the best things you can do for your heart is to give up.
- Consume heart-healthy food. Keep an eye on what you eat and drink, emphasizing foods that will lower blood pressure and have excellent cholesterol.
- Maintain normal preventive care – From annual physicals to flu vaccines, being up to date on preventative care can help you stay healthier and identify possible problems early on, when they are easier to treat.
Conclusion:
The most important thing is to make an effort to maintain body temperature. Keep your body away from cold temperatures. This implies that whether you’re sitting inside your home or out and about, you need to have enough clothing to keep you warm.
Particular caution is issued to heart patients when roaming in blustery, chilly, and windy conditions. If you’ve experienced any cardiac issues lately, you should attempt to avoid being outside. However, avoid going from a chilly to a warm temperature or the other way around.
Many simply switch on the room heaters and leave the room for somewhere chilly and desolate. People who are prone to heart attacks may find this dangerous, and their doctor will encourage them to take all essential precautions to guarantee good heart care. Pay attention to your doctor’s recommendations, especially in light of the impending winter.
We would rather suggest a consultation with Dr. Ravinder Singh Rao, who can help and prevent you from getting any heart related problems.