Winter Heart Attack Risk: Why does the risk of heart attack increase in winter? Know the causes, symptoms and prevention measures

The winter season brings many problems for heart patients. Cases of heart attack increase in the cold season. According to experts, the heart has to work harder than normal in the cold, which increases the risk of heart-related diseases.

Winter Heart Attack Risk:  Winter season brings many problems for heart patients. Cases of heart attack increase in cold weather. According to experts, the heart has to work harder than usual in cold weather, which increases the risk of heart diseases. Heart arteries shrink and become stiff in cold weather. In cold weather, the heart has to work harder to pump blood in the body. Therefore, especially people suffering from heart related diseases are advised to take more care in winter.

In winter, the heart has to work twice as hard to pump oxygen throughout the body to keep you warm. The supply of oxygen to the heart muscles decreases. This is why there is a higher chance of blood clots and stroke or heart attack during winter. Let us know its main causes, symptoms and preventive measures.

Reasons for increased heart attacks in cold weather

1. Shrinkage of blood vessels: The blood vessels of the body shrink in cold weather, which increases blood pressure. High blood pressure puts extra pressure on the heart, which can increase the risk of heart attack.

2. Thickening of blood: The blood in the body thickens in winter, which increases the risk of blood clots. These clots can block blood flow to the heart, which can lead to a heart attack.

3. Lack of physical activity: People avoid going out and exercising during cold days. Lack of physical activity can weaken the heart, which can increase heart problems.

4. Trying to keep the body warm: In winter, the heart has to work harder to keep the body warm. This puts extra pressure on the heart and increases the risk of heart attack.

Symptoms of a Heart Attack

• Feeling pain or heaviness in the chest.
• Difficulty breathing or feeling of suffocation.
• Feeling dizzy or weak.
• Pain in the arms, shoulders, jaw or back.
• Excessive sweating without any reason.

If you experience these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.

Preventive measures

1. Keep the body warm: To keep yourself warm in winter, wear warm clothes and avoid cold winds. Maintain proper temperature inside the house as well.

2. Continue physical activity: Exercise regularly despite the cold. Light walks or yoga help keep the heart healthy.

3. Take a healthy diet: Include fruits, vegetables and lightly fried food in your diet. Foods rich in fibre and omega-3 are beneficial for the heart.

4. Avoid smoking and alcohol: Cigarettes and alcohol harm heart health. Keep away from them.

5. Pay attention to blood pressure and sugar: Get your blood pressure and sugar checked regularly and take medicines as per the doctor's advice.

6. Avoid sudden exposure to cold: Avoid direct exposure to very cold water or weather. Acclimate yourself to the temperature slowly.

Experts say that "heart patients should be extra cautious during winters. Regular exercise, a balanced diet and reducing stress help in keeping the heart healthy. If you feel any symptoms, contact the doctor immediately."

Disclaimer: This article has been prepared on the basis of information collected from medical reports. The related article aims to increase the information and awareness of the readers. Consult your doctor for more information about the related disease.

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