Cold Weather and Heart Attack: How to Prevent it?

Our body has to go through various physiological changes to adjust to the changing weather conditions. Cold weather can impact our heart’s health in many ways. This includes constriction in arteries, fluid overload, high blood volume, and increased heart load. If you wish to know more about cold weather and heart attacks, then read below.

Who is More Prone to Heart Attacks During Winters?

Some people are more prone to heart attacks in cold weather. These people include:

A. Alcoholics and smokers:

Alcohol takes the heat away from different body organs and increases blood supply in the skin. Smoking negatively impacts the flexibility of arteries. Therefore, smokers and alcoholics are more prone to heart attacks.

B. Individuals who have a history of cardiovascular diseases:

Those who have a history of cardiovascular diseases like high cholesterol levels and hypertension are more prone to heart attacks during winters.

C. Old people:

Old people fail to cope with low temperatures, which is why they are more prone to heart attacks during the winter season.

How to Prevent Heart Attacks in Winters?

Below are some tips that can reduce the risk of a heart attack in cold temperatures.

1. Avoid overheating:

Don’t overheat your body by performing physical activities. This may lead to blood vessel dilation, which may further result in hypotension.

2. Avoid exertion:

You must not do excessive exercise or physical activity as it can negatively impact your heart’s health.

3. Get flu vaccine:

Those who suffer from flu during winters every year must get a flu vaccine. Flu can further lead to heart problems. Therefore, it is recommended to get vaccinated to prevent flu.

4. Avoid drinking alcohol:

Alcohol damages internal organs by withdrawing heat from them.

Therefore, you must avoid drinking alcohol in order to prevent cold weather and heart attack.

5. Routine health checkups:

One should go through routine health checkups even if he or she doesn’t have a history of cardiovascular diseases.

6. Don’t go out in cold weather:

Go outside your house only if it is necessary. Otherwise, you should stay inside your house and avoid exposure to cold. Also, if you go out, you must cover your body with warm socks, shoes, and multilayer clothing.

So, this was all about cold weather and heart attack. Now, you are well aware of who is more prone to heart attacks during the winter season and how to prevent it.