Contributed by: Healthians Team
Introduction
As the temperature begins to fall during the winter season, the risk of heart attack increases. The condition takes place because the decreasing temperature brings about certain physiological and biological changes in the body.
The blood vessels contract due to the cold weather, increasing the chances of high blood pressure and the risk of heart attack and stroke.
It can also give rise to angina – chest pain due to reduced blood flow to the heart caused by the constricted blood vessels.
During winters, the heart puts extra effort to maintain a healthy body temperature as the cold weather causes the body to lose heat more quickly rapidly. If the heart health is compromised, it can also cause hypothermia – a condition in which the body temperature drops below 35 C.
Moreover, the reduced exposure to sunlight affects the circadian rhythms (body clock), which can lead to emotional stress or depression.
These conditions can occur due to reduced exposure to sunlight which decreases serotonin levels (a neurotransmitter that affects the mood), along with a disruptive sleep cycle.
In today’s article, we bring all you need to know about the symptoms and risk factors of a heart attack during winters, along with five precautionary steps that may help prevent a heart attack during the cold season.
Heart attack – signs & symptoms
Heart attack can manifest a variety of signs, but the most common one is acute chest pain. However, in some cases, there might not be any sign, such as in ischemia or better known as a silent heart attack.
Here are a few symptoms that a person should not ignore, and consult a healthcare provider at the earliest if experiencing them.
- Chest pain or discomfort (uncomfortable squeezing, pressure, or fullness) in the centre or left side of the chest that continues for a minute or longer, or that comes and goes away
- Experiencing cold sweat with weakness or lightheadedness
- Pain or extreme discomfort in the jaw, neck, or back
- Shortness of breath
- Pain moving back and forth from the centre of the chest to the left arm
Heart attack – risk factors
Besides knowing the signs and symptoms, it’s equally vital to be aware of risk factors that can affect your heart health. People who should take extra precautions to reduce the risk of a heart attack during winter include:
- Smokers and heavy alcohol takers
- Those with pre-existing heart conditions
- People who have had a heart attack in the past
- Those with high blood pressure and high cholesterol
- Those who lead a sedentary lifestyle
Note: Studies show that Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab have the highest number of cardiovascular disease patients.
5 precautionary tips for a healthy heart during winters
People usually tend to neglect the early signs of heart attack mistaking them to be indigestion or a muscle strain. The pain may be similar, but, if it occurs frequently, you should immediately consult your doctor.
Although heart diseases are serious complications, yet one should always keep in mind that the risk can be minimized by taking certain precautionary measures, which include:
- Avoiding alcohol and smoking
The toxic effects of alcohol consumption are known to all. During winters, excessive drinking can warm the body more than required, thus affecting the heart muscles and obstructing the pumping of blood, which can lead to heart failure.
A person should avoid consuming alcohol in the first place or drink in moderation, as the body slowly adapts to the temperature.
Smoking directly impacts the functioning of the heart, no matter the season and it is one of the key contributors to heart ailments. Stop smoking if you have the habit and never start if you don’t.
- Stay warm
The cold temperature can clamp down your blood vessels, especially if you’re old or have a heart condition. Dressing in warm layers can protect the body from the cold by maintaining the body temperature at normal levels.
However, if the body gets overheated, remove a layer or two until you feel better. Too much heat can lead to dilated blood vessels and may even lower blood pressure.
- Don’t skip working out. Bring it indoors
The cold weather and the comfort of a blanket can often lead to procrastination and may even lead to a sedentary lifestyle, which is one of the major factors responsible for diseases like diabetes and hypertension.
Although the early morning cold during the winters can be risky, you can always opt for indoor exercises like yoga, pilates, stretching, or a simple workout routine, in your living room.
- Stress management is important
Stress can cause high blood pressure that can affect heart health and may even lead to heart attack and stroke. To avoid this condition, you must take breaks from work and engage in other activities of interest.
Doing yoga and meditation can also help in lowering your stress levels and reducing the risk of a heart attack.
- A healthy diet & sound sleep
A healthy and nutrient-rich diet during the winter season can strengthen your immunity and protect you from winter ailments.
It may even reduce the risk of heart diseases by detoxifying the blood and allowing a hindrance free circulation. Opt for seasonal foods available during winters or any season.
Getting sufficient sleep can also aid in healthy blood circulation and minimize the risk of a heart attack. Doctors recommend that a person should get a sound sleep of at least seven to eight hours every night.
Final thoughts
The winter season may increase the risk of heart problems, especially for older people and those who have underlying heart conditions.
However, the risk of heart attacks can be reduced by following the above-mentioned precautionary tips.
Furthermore, you should also take regular heart checkups for a comprehensive insight into your heart health.
It allows you to take preventive measures against heart issues and also promotes your overall well-being.
