Heart Attack In Winters: Why do heart attack cases increase in cold weather as compared to summer?

Posted on 6th Dec 2022 by rohit kumar

Heart Attack In Winters: A heart attack occurs when the blood supply to the heart is suddenly interrupted, mainly due to a blockage in one of the arteries of the heart. The blood vessels get blocked due to the accumulation of fats or plaque in the arteries. When this plaque ruptures, a blood clot is formed, which causes blockage of the arteries, leading to a heart attack.

 

It is said that the risk of heart attack increases in the winter season as compared to the summer season. Let us know how correct it is and what could be the reason behind it.

 

Does cold weather affect heart health?

Due to the decrease in temperature in the winter season, the health of the heart is greatly affected. In cold weather, the heart has to work harder to keep the body warm. Blood vessels constrict due to the continuous pumping of blood.

 

Does cold weather increase the risk of a heart attack?

Yes, it is believed that the cases of heart attacks increase in the winter season. This is because people do less work in this season. During this, disorders like stroke, heart failure, cardiovascular problems, and arrhythmia increase in cold weather.

 

The body's nervous system becomes more active in winter, which causes the blood vessels to constrict, which is known as 'vasoconstriction'. In this, the level of blood pressure starts increasing and the heart has to work harder to pump the blood. Which damages the blood vessels.

 

How to avoid a heart attack in winter?

When the winter season approaches, more precautions have to be taken to reduce the risk of a heart attack. Keep these things in mind:

 

Keeping the body warm in the cold months is one of the best ways to protect the heart.

 

If your physical activity is high, be sure to take breaks in between.

 

Drink plenty of water, so that the body remains hydrated. Dehydration works to increase the heartbeat.

 

Keep an eye on the signs of a heart attack and get your heart health checked from time to time.

 

Also Read: Climate change threat to unborn babies: Negative impact on developing brain, risk of serious mental problems

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