The winter season may trigger many physiological changes in the body that can affect the functioning or health of your heart.
Here are the changes:
Cold temperature triggers the narrowing of blood vessels, especially in limbs, to conserve core body heat. This causes high blood pressure and forces the heart to work harder to pump blood, increasing the risk, especially in pre-existing heart conditions
Winter increases heart rate and blood pressure to maintain blood circulation and warmth. This puts unnecessary strain on heart conditions, potentially leading to attacks or strokes.
In cold temperatures, blood becomes thicker as platelets clump more easily, leading to clotting. This can block arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks or strokes.
In winter, your body can release hormones such as adrenaline in response to cold temperatures. This puts unnecessary pressure on the heart, worsening angina or ischemia.
Long-term cold exposure decreases body temperature, reducing metabolism and putting stress on the heart muscle. This can increase the risk of a heart condition, especially in vulnerable populations.
It has been observed that individuals with coronary heart disease often suffer angina pectoris (chest pain or discomfort) when exposed to cold weather.
People with the following conditions or habits are at higher risk of cardiovascular health conditions in winter:
Cold weather puts pressure on your heart due to the following physiological changes:
All these can trigger abnormal heart health conditions and increase the risk of heart attacks, angina, and arrhythmias, particularly in vulnerable groups.
Here are the possible heart conditions that individuals of the vulnerable groups can experience:
If you have a preexisting heart- and blood vessel-related condition, you must follow your doctor’s advice. However, these preventive healthy tips can help you live a heart-healthy life.
Gentle exercises like yoga or walking maintain fitness, healthy blood flow lowers blood pressure, and lowering clot risks during winter.
A healthy diet helps prevent artery clogging to support steady heart function.
Healthy stress and blood pressure levels reduce the load on the heart.
A good layering of clothes, hats, and gloves stops blood vessels from tightening in the cold, reducing the pressure on your heart.
Keeping proper hydration helps in smooth blood circulation for better oxygen delivery. This reduces the risk of heart conditions.
Routine checkups keep track of healthy levels of BP, cholesterol, or sugar, helping in timely treatment to avoid any complications.
For many, winter is the favorite season of the year, but it carries a hidden risk of increased heart attacks and strokes. But you can decrease the risk by following your doctor's advice and adopting heart-healthy winter tips such as staying warm, active, and well-nourished. In this way, you can effectively lower these risks and help yourself enjoy the season safely and healthily.
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