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. Although heart problems can happen in any season, 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 underlying heart conditions and trigger the onset of acute heart problems.
The factors behind this winter spike in heart attacks are multifaceted, due to both biological and lifestyle factors. Understanding these elements is crucial to avoiding heart-related health issues during the colder seasons.
*Vasoconstriction & Increased Blood Pressure*
When temperatures drop, the body’s natural response is to preserve heat. To do this, blood vessels narrow in a process known as vasoconstriction. While this helps conserve body heat by minimizing the amount of blood flow to the skin and extremities, it also has serious effects for the cardiovascular system.
The narrowing of blood vessels causes an increase in blood pressure, which adds pressure to the heart. For individuals with existing heart disease, this can be particularly dangerous, as the heart is already under pressure to keep the blood moving. Increased blood pressure can harm the arteries and raise the chances of plaque rupture, causing blood clots that may cause a heart attack.
*Higher Blood Clotting Risk*
Cold weather has a noticeable effect on the blood's viscosity, making it thicker and stickier. This increase in blood clotting is the body’s mechanism for preventing excessive bleeding in cold conditions, but it also heightens the chance of clot formation within the circulatory system. If these clots cut off blood supply 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 winter days, people are often less active. The urge to stay indoors and forgo outdoor exercise, combined with the discomfort of the cold, results in a more sedentary lifestyle. Regular physical activity is a key factor in ensuring heart health, as it helps to lower blood pressure. The lack of exercise during winter can reduce cardiovascular fitness and increase the likelihood of click here heart attacks, especially in those already at risk.
*Winter Stress & Holiday Indulgences*
The winter season coincides with the holiday period, a here time commonly linked to stress, overeating, and get more info indulging in foods high in fat and sodium. Increased alcohol consumption, heavy meals, and disrupted sleep schedules can cause rising blood pressure and cholesterol levels, placing additional strain 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 follow steps to maintain a healthy heart. Here are some key steps to reduce the risk:
· *Stay Warm*: Wear layers to reduce the impact check here of cold on your body’s circulation.
· *Stay Active*: Engage in regular physical activity indoors.
· *Follow a Healthy Diet*: Opt website for nutritious foods to protect your heart.
Jinkushal Cardiac Care & Superspeciality Hospital has a dedicated team of experienced cardiologists for comprehensive heart treatments.