Cold Weather and Heart Attacks: 3 Things to Know

As winter knocks on our doors and temperatures take a nosedive, our focus often shifts to safeguarding our homes, plants and furry friends. However, there's a crucial aspect that many tend to overlook, the impact of colder weather on our hearts. This season, put your health and the health of your loved ones first.

It's time to be proactive about your heart health during the winter chill!

What happens to your heart in cold weather?

When temperatures plummet, the cold weather can cause your arteries to constrict. In normal conditions, when you're physically active, your arteries open up, allowing blood to flow freely throughout your body. Yet, in colder weather, your blood flow takes a hit as vessels contract. This means your heart has to work extra hard, leading to increased blood pressure and pulse.

Additionally, colder temperatures make platelets more likely to clump together, forming clots. Combine this with elevated heart rates from activities like skiing or shoveling snow, and you’ve got a potential recipe for trouble, especially for those with a history of coronary or cardiovascular issues.

Why are heart attacks more common in the winter?

Cold weather can have a surprising impact on your heart and understanding why is key to protecting yourself. When temperatures drop, your body works harder to maintain its core temperature. This triggers several physiological changes that can strain your heart:

• Constricted blood vessels: Cold weather causes arteries to narrow, making it harder for blood to flow
• Increased blood pressure: Your heart works harder to pump blood through constricted vessels
• Higher risk of clots: Platelets are more likely to clump together in cold temperatures, increasing the risk of clots
• Physical exertion in the cold: Activities like shoveling snow or skiing can strain the heart, especially for those with pre-existing conditions

Who is most at risk for heart problems in winter?

While cold weather can affect anyone, certain groups are more vulnerable to heart problems during the winter months. Knowing if you fall into one of these categories can help you take extra precautions:

• Individuals with pre-existing heart conditions: If you have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or other cardiovascular issues, your heart is already working harder than normal. Cold weather can exacerbate these conditions, increasing your risk of a heart attack
• Older adults: As we age, our bodies become less efficient at regulating temperature, making older adults more susceptible to the effects of cold weather on the heart
• People with sedentary lifestyles: If you’re not used to regular physical activity, sudden exertion in cold weather, like shoveling snow, can put unexpected strain on your heart
• Smokers: Smoking damages blood vessels and reduces oxygen levels in the blood, which can compound the effects of cold weather on your cardiovascular system
• Those with poor circulation: Conditions like diabetes or peripheral artery disease can make it harder for your body to maintain proper blood flow in cold temperatures

If you fall into one of these categories, it’s especially important to follow heart-healthy practices during the winter. Bundle up, avoid overexertion, and consult your doctor if you have concerns about your heart health.

How can you protect your heart in cold weather?

Strenuous activities, from your New Year’s workout resolutions to family ski trips and even exerting yourself at a chilly Mardi Gras parade, can pose a risk, and it's not just for individuals with a cardiac history. Even those without prior heart issues can be affected. Some experts recommend that individuals with a significant cardiac history steer clear of outdoor cold-weather activities altogether. Here are a few strategies to keep your heart strong and resilient in the winter months:

1. Bundle up with layers: Don't just battle the cold; conquer it! Dress in layers to create a cozy insulation barrier that traps precious warmth
2. Top it off with a hat: Your head matters! Up to 30% of your body heat escapes through your head, so keep it snug with a hat or head scarf
3. Warm up those extremities: Ensure your hands and feet are warm – they tend to lose heat rapidly. Exposed body parts can lead to constricted blood flow and an increased risk of frostbite
4. Skip the outdoor sips: Before venturing outdoors or while you're outside, resist the urge to indulge in alcoholic beverages. While they may provide a fleeting warmth, they draw heat away from your vital organs, resulting in an overall loss of body heat
5. Stay dry and cozy: Dampness accelerates heat loss, so keep yourself dry to maintain warmth in chilly conditions
6. Know your risks: Understand your family's health history and stay up to date with health screenings. Knowledge is power, and it's your shield against potential heart issues

Winter is a wonderful season, and it’s important to revel in the unique activities this season offers, while keeping these expert tips in mind. For those of us in the South, relish this break from the usual scorching temperatures! Your heart will thank you for these mindful practices the next time the mercury takes a dip. Stay warm, stay informed and let's make this winter a celebration of health and vitality!