The American Heart Association has released critical information about cold weather's impact on cardiovascular health as winter storms approach, emphasizing that low temperatures can significantly increase heart-related risks. Cold causes blood vessels to contract and coronary arteries to constrict, which raises blood pressure and elevates the risk of heart attack, stroke, or cardiac arrest. People with heart disease often experience angina pectoris (chest pain or discomfort) in cold conditions, while strenuous winter activities add additional stress to the cardiovascular system.
Hypothermia presents another serious danger, occurring when the body cannot produce enough energy to maintain adequate internal temperature. Symptoms include lack of coordination, mental confusion, slowed reactions, shivering, and sleepiness, with the condition potentially proving fatal. The association notes that cold weather coincides with cold and flu season, but warns that certain cold medicines can be problematic for those with high blood pressure, recommending consultation with health care professionals before taking any over-the-counter medications, supplements, or substances.
To stay heart-safe during cold weather, the association recommends dressing in layers to trap insulating air and prevent heat loss, with particular attention to covering the head, ears, hands, and feet. When engaging in winter activities, individuals should avoid overexertion since the body already uses extra energy to stay warm. For snow removal, pushing or sweeping snow involves less exertion than lifting and throwing it, with gradual pacing and attention to bodily signals being crucial.
Hydration remains important even when thirst isn't apparent, while cold weather drinks like pumpkin spiced lattes and hot chocolate should be consumed in moderation due to their sugar and fat content. Alcohol consumption requires caution since it may increase warmth sensation while masking the body's strain in cold conditions. Special attention should be given to elderly individuals who may have diminished temperature sensitivity and lower subcutaneous fat, putting them at risk for hypothermia without recognizing the danger.
Recognizing heart attack warning signs and taking immediate action by calling 911 can save lives, with the association emphasizing that minutes matter during cardiac events. Given that EMS response times can slow during bad weather and over 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside hospitals annually, learning Hands-Only CPR becomes particularly valuable. This technique involves two steps: calling 911 and pushing hard and fast in the center of the chest, potentially doubling or tripling survival chances. Additional information about cold weather and cardiovascular disease is available at https://heart.org, while specific resources include guidance on Cold Weather and Cardiovascular Disease and How to Stay Active in Cold Weather.
