Dr Arvind Kohli
Winter is a season of cozy nights by the fire, snowflakes drifting gently from the sky, and a time to celebrate the beauty of nature’s quiet transformation. Whether you love the chill in the air or the festive spirit of the holidays, there’s something about winter that inspires reflection and a sense of wonder. But for all its glories, winter can also bring a certain element of danger to our lives, particularly when it comes to our hearts, and it’s important to appreciate both the benefits and risks of this chilly season. As the temperatures drop during the cold weather months, many of us look forward to cozying up indoors or enjoying seasonal outdoor activities. However, for individuals with cardiovascular conditions, the winter chill can pose a hidden health risk. Cold weather is more than just an environmental challenge-it can significantly affect the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of cardiovascular issues.
Cold Weather with a Heart Condition
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 attacks rates can rise by up to 53% in winter compared to summer. The cold can also cause changes to blood rheology that may increase the risk of developing blood clots, which could lead to a heart attack or stroke.
Whether you have a pre-existing heart issue or simply want to prioritise your heart health, understanding how winter impacts the heart and taking proactive steps is essential. .
How Does Cold Weather Affect Your Heart?
Being exposed to cold weather during winter can raise the risk of heart attacks,now known as Acute coronary event/Syndrome. The cold weather can cause blood vessels to narrow(Vasoconstriction), raising blood pressure and makes the heart work harder to circulate blood. This increased strain on the heart is a major reason why heart attacks come in winter, especially for those with existing heart conditions.
Consider these statistics:
* For every 1°C drop in temperature, the risk of heart attack increases by 2%
* Heart-related deaths are 26-36% higher in winter compared to summer
* Cold weather increases blood pressure by an average of 5 mmHg
Additionally, in winter, the heart may beat faster to generate heat which creates a stress on the cardiovascular system. Breathing in icy air can also cause arteries to spasm, reducing blood flow to the heart. These factors, along with a higher risk of respiratory infections, help explain the connection between winter and heart attacks.
Tips to Manage Heart Health in Winter
Dress Warmly
One of the simplest ways to protect your heart in winter is to dress in layers and keep yourself warm. When your body is exposed to cold temperatures, your blood vessels constrict, forcing your heart to pump harder. Wear warm caps, scarves, and gloves to avoid exposing your body to freezing conditions.
Avoid walks during chilly mornings,
Cold mornings without sun are not the best time to have a walk for heart patients. Blood pressure can naturally spike in mornings which holds a greater risk of heart attack. It is also advisable to take walks during evenings in the mild sun. One should also take break during the walks. However, it is essential to get some vitamin D naturally so whenever possible enjoy the mellow sunshine of winter
Stay Active, but Don’t Overdo It
Physical activity is essential for heart health, but during winter, intense outdoor exercises in the cold can put extra strain on your heart. Choose indoor exercises or activities that help you to stay warm. Walking in a warm environment, yoga, or light aerobic exercises can help you stay fit without overexerting your heart.
Monitor Your Blood Pressure
Cold weather can raise blood pressure, which can increase the risk of winter and heart disease. Monitoring your blood pressure regularly, especially when you have a history of hypertension or heart disease. Keeping track of your numbers can help in early detection of problems before they escalate.
Eat Heart-Healthy Foods
It is important to indulge in healthy food and avoid fried food especially during winters. It is also vital to eat the meals at regular time and not go hungry, berries, flaxseeds, nuts, dark chocolate, omega-3 fish, legumes, citrus fruits, tomatoes, and veggies like spinach, carrots, sweet potatoes, red peppers, broccoli are some of the foods that are good for the heart. Reduce your intake of salt, which gets accumulated in the body due to less sweating. This puts extra load on the heart. Stay hydrated and avoid overexertion
DeStressing
Stressing and winter are not a good combination for your heart. It is important for heart patients to avoid stressful situations at any given time, but this becomes extremely important during winter. Whether it is work stress or personal problems, it is important to deal with things positively and stay happy. Stick to meditation and other measures whatever keeps you away from tensions
Healthy living
Body”s immune system is lowest during winter which leads to spreading of infections especially chest infections and asthmatic attacks It is extremely important to stay healthy and away from flu. Visit your doctor even in case of slightest fever or cold. Early treatments will keep help you recover soon and stay healthy.
Tests to Get Your Heart Checked During Winter
Winter can be challenging for individuals with heart conditions. For those with existing heart issues or are at a higher risk, it’s crucial to check your heart health regularly during winter. Keeping up with key tests can help in early detection and allow for timely management, reducing the risk of serious complications like heart attacks.
Here are some essential tests to consider:
Blood Pressure Monitoring: Hypertension is a significant risk factor for heart disease, and winter can cause blood pressure to spike. Regular monitoring helps ensure that it stays within a healthy range.
Cholesterol and Lipid Profile: High cholesterol levels can lead to plaque build-up in the arteries, increasing the risk of winter and heart attacks. Keeping a track of your cholesterol levels let’s take action to manage it with diet or medication if needed.
Blood Glucose Levels (for Diabetes): High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels over time, leading to heart disease. Regular blood glucose testing is vital for individuals with diabetes or those at risk.
Electrocardiogram (ECG): An ECG records the electrical activity of the heart and helps detect any irregularities, such as arrhythmias, that could indicate underlying heart problems.
Exercise Stress Test: This test measures how well your heart can handle physical exertion, which is particularly important in winter when outdoor activities can put extra strain on the heart. This needs to be decided by the attending physician when you require this test
Echocardiogram: An echocardiogram uses an ultrasound to create images of the heart, helping doctors assess heart function, detect valve problems, and check for heart damage.
Conclusion
Cold weather brings unique challenges to cardiovascular health, particularly for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. By understanding the effects of cold weather on your heart and taking preventive measures, you can reduce the risk of cold-induced cardiovascular complications. If you have concerns about your heart health during the winter months, be sure to consult with a healthcare provider to guide you to navigating the cold for a Resilient Heart
Wishing all the distinguished readers very healthy heart health during new year 2025
(The author is Cardiac Surgeon)
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