Heart diseases continue to be the leading cause of death among people all around the world. One of the most common conditions that affect the heart is heart attacks. Heart attacks occur when blood flow to the heart muscle is obstructed.
Although, heart attacks can occur at any time, during any season, however the cases of heart attacks become more common during the winter season.
Know, why the winter season can spike your risk of heart attacks, and what you can do during the cold weather to keep your vital organ safe and healthy.
Why is winter weather the “Heart attack season”?
“It is true that the winter season is known as the heart attack season, as it sees an increase in the risk of heart attacks. There are mainly two reasons for this, one is called sympathetic over activity or hyper activity, which increases the blood pressure and temperature in the body that leads to heart attacks. The second reason is coronary artery spasm, which happens when we go to a cold place. In such places, our body gets artery spasm which leads to heart attacks,” said Dr. Subroto Mandal, Cardiologist at LN Medical College Bhopal.
The winter season is characterized by factors such as barometric pressure, humidity, winds, and cold temperatures. These can cause our bodies to respond in a certain way that can increase heart attack risk.
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For example, in the cold weather, nervous system activity leads us to keep us warm, blood vessels narrow, and blood thickens. All these factors can negatively affect blood pressure, which may lead to heart attacks.
Tips to keep the heart healthy during the winter season
- Wear warm clothes – Dr. Mandal suggests, “cold weather requires us to keep our bodies warm. When the body is cold, the nervous system activity tends to increase blood pressure. It can cause the blood to thicken. You should make sure that you are dressed according to the weather, and your clothes keep you warm.”
- Avoid any discomfort – “If you are staying outdoors and feel uncomfortable, make sure you come inside often to avoid any discomfort. At the same time, avoid clothing that is hard to remove, or makes you uncomfortable,” said Dr. Mandal.
- Keep a check on your blood pressure- Dr. Mandal said, “In winters, you should keep checking your blood pressure regularly and try to keep your body warm.”
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- Do not skip exercise – Cardiovascular exercises such as cycling, brisk walking, running, jogging, etc are good for your heart. Even as it gets cold outside, try to stay regular with your exercise routine.
- Moderate the intake of alcohol – Winter season is often synonymous with festivals, holidays, and thus, alcohol. The common notion that alcohol helps to keep the body warm can also lead to a few extra drinks. However, if you want to keep your heart healthy, watch your alcohol intake, and do not overconsume, it should be taken in moderation, said Dr. Mandal.
- If you are a morning walker then make sure that you do not get exposed to the chilled weather. As well as during this season change the early morning timings for walking.
