The winter months can be harsh and uninviting. The cold can take a toll on your mood as well as your heart. Cold weather and cardiovascular disease have been shown to be related. Be sure to safeguard against both this winter season.
Cold Weather and Cardiovascular Disease
It’s no surprise that colds and the flu are associated with cold weather, but did you know about cold weather and cardiovascular disease?
Winter conditions can cause increased blood pressure and heart rate levels. Additionally, heart attacks go up during colder months.
Scientists discovered that there were about 200 more heart attacks for each 1.8 degrees the temperature drops. This applied to healthy people and unhealthy people alike.
During the colder months, Americans have a 30% chance that they will suffer a heart attack. Doctors warn to dress warmly and keep an eye out for heart attack symptoms.
“The winter months can put even a healthy person at risk for a heart attack or other heart health problems. To help protect yourself and those around you, be aware of the warning signs of heart attack, which include pressure, tightness or pain in the chest or arms, nausea, shortness of breath, cold sweat, lightheadedness, and fatigue,” stated Dr. Donny Hardy from KentuckyOne Health Primary Care Associates.
If you feel any of these symptoms or are with someone who describes their pain with these symptoms, do not hesitate to call 911. Many times, a difference of minutes can save a life.
Blood clots are more common in winter as well because platelets become sticky and slow down, which causes a buildup.
Help Avoid Heart Attacks In Winter
Cold weather and cardiovascular disease don’t have to get the best of you. Being safe and smart can help you stay healthy.
When you go outside, wear the appropriate clothing. Wear more than one layer, a hat, and gloves. Heat escapes most rapidly from your hands, feet, and head.
Ears are sensitive to the cold since they don’t have much protecting them. If your body gets too cold, hypothermia can set it and create serious potential health risks.
Those with already existing heart conditions should not do excess work like shoveling snow. If you do, be sure to take breaks regularly and dress warmly. Also, do not drink alcohol right before or after you shovel, since alcohol can make you feel warmer than you actually are.
Be sure to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly. Continuing to eat food low in fat, sodium, and cholesterol can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Keeping your heart strong and blood pressure regular with exercise is essential. Find an indoor exercise program that you like and gets your heart rate up for at least 20 minutes.
L-Arginine Plus is another easy and excellent way to keep cold weather and cardiovascular disease at bay. L-Arginine Plus can keep your blood flow healthy and limit the risk of heart disease and heart attacks through the creation of nitric oxide in your blood. Give it a try and stay healthy this winter!
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