DOES WINTER MAKE YOU MORE VULNERABLE FOR HEART ATTACK?..KNOW THE REASONS
DOES WINTER MAKE YOU MORE VULNERABLE FOR HEART ATTACK?..KNOW THE REASONS
Blog Article
Discover How Winter Increases Heart Attack Risks and Why
When the cold season begins, the human body faces several health complications, with one of the most concerning the rise in cardiac events. While heart attacks are possible any time of the year, there's often a noticeable increase in cases during the colder months. This increase in cold-weather cases is a cause for concern, as winter chills can aggravate problems in individuals with existing heart conditions and trigger the onset of acute heart problems.
The reasons behind this winter spike in heart attacks are varied, due to both biological and lifestyle factors. Understanding these elements is crucial to preventing heart-related health issues in the colder seasons.
*Vasoconstriction & Increased Blood Pressure*
When temperatures go down, the body’s natural response is to retain heat. To achieve this, blood vessels tighten in a process known as blood vessel constriction. While this helps conserve body heat by minimizing the amount of blood flow to the skin and extremities, it also has significant consequences for the cardiovascular system.
The narrowing of blood vessels causes an increase in blood pressure, which puts extra strain on the heart. For individuals with pre-existing heart conditions, this can be particularly hazardous, as the heart is already under strain to keep the blood moving. Increased blood pressure can damage the arteries and heighten the risk of plaque rupture, causing blood clots that may cause a heart attack.
*Higher Blood Clotting Risk*
Chilly conditions has a noticeable effect on the blood's viscosity, making it thicker and more coagulative. This increase in click here blood clotting is the body’s way of preventing excessive bleeding in cold conditions, but it also increases the likelihood get more info of clot formation in the arteries. If these clots block the flow of blood to the heart, they can cause a heart attack. Individuals who already have damaged or weakened arteries are particularly susceptible to this heightened clotting risk during the winter months.
*Reduced Physical Activity*
During the chill season, people are often less active. The preference to stay indoors and avoid outdoor exercise, along with the discomfort of the cold, results in a more sedentary lifestyle. Regular physical activity is a key more info factor in ensuring heart health, as it helps to lower blood pressure. The lack of exercise during winter can impact heart strength and increase the likelihood of heart attacks, especially in those already at risk.
*Winter Stress & Holiday Indulgences*
The winter season coincides with the holiday period, a time often associated with stress, overeating, and indulging in rich, unhealthy foods. Increased alcohol consumption, heavy meals, and disrupted sleep schedules can cause rising blood pressure and cholesterol levels, placing additional strain here on the heart.
*Steps To Minimize The Risk Of Heart Attack In Winter*
Given the increased risk of heart attacks during the winter months, individuals, especially those with cardiovascular issues, should adopt strategies to safeguard their cardiovascular system. Here are some key steps to reduce the risk:
· *Stay Warm*: Wear layers to reduce the impact of cold on your body’s circulation.
· *Exercise Indoors*: Keep moving with light indoor workouts.
· *Eat Heart-Healthy website Foods*: Reduce the intake of fatty foods, salt, and alcohol.
Jinkushal Cardiac Care & Superspeciality Hospital has a dedicated team of experienced cardiologists to provide world-class cardiac care.