Beware of cold weather! The heart's workload increases
Cold weather can negatively affect heart health just as it impacts all of the body's systems; experts point out that the risk of heart disease increases, especially during the winter months. So, what should be paid attention to during these months?
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Explaining the effects of cold weather on the heart, Medical Park Tokat Hospital Cardiology Specialist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Arif Arısoy stated, "Exercises performed in cold weather, especially in the morning hours, or walking or running against the wind can lead to heart attacks, rhythm disorders, and the worsening of heart failure. We recommend that exercises in the winter months be done in indoor areas, during midday hours, and with appropriate clothing."
Stating that they witness an increase in heart-related health problems as air temperatures drop, the specialist doctor provided information on the effects of cold weather on heart health.
THE HEART'S WORKLOAD INCREASES WITH THE COLD
Pointing out that heart-related health problems increase as air temperatures drop, the expert stated that cold weather causes blood vessels to constrict and the heart's workload to increase. "While this situation can occur even in healthy hearts, it carries greater importance for those with heart diseases and chronic conditions. However, every individual's body may react differently to cold weather. Age, physical condition, and the number and severity of underlying chronic diseases can affect the reaction to the cold," he explained.
HEART PATIENTS SHOULD WEAR CLOTHING THAT COVERS THEIR CHEST
Recommending that individuals who have had a heart attack, undergone balloon and stent procedures, had bypass surgery, or suffer from heart failure, valve disease, or arrhythmia problems should avoid going outside in very cold weather if possible, the expert said, "When it is necessary to go out, midday hours when the weather is milder should be preferred, and sufficiently thick, preferably cotton or wool, clothing that completely covers the chest area should be used to protect against the cold."
WALKING AGAINST THE WIND IN COLD WEATHER IS A CAUSE OF RHYTHM DISORDERS
Drawing attention to behaviors that should be avoided in cold weather, the doctor made the following recommendations:
“Exercising in cold weather, especially in the morning hours, or situations like walking or running against the wind can cause heart attacks, rhythm disorders, and the worsening of heart failure. We recommend that exercises in the winter months be done in indoor areas, during midday hours, and with appropriate clothing if possible.”
CARDIOVASCULAR PATIENTS SHOULD GET FLU AND PNEUMONIA VACCINES
Pointing out that illnesses such as flu infections and pneumonia become common in the winter months, the expert said, "These diseases are an important factor that negatively affects cardiovascular health. Following infections, myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) can develop, ranging from mild severity to levels that can pose a life-threatening risk. Furthermore, it can cause the worsening of existing heart diseases, frequent hospitalizations, and even deaths. For this reason, it is extremely important for people with cardiovascular disease, in particular, to get their flu and pneumonia vaccines to reduce this risk."
RECOMMENDATIONS TO PROTECT HEART HEALTH ON COLD DAYS
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Arısoy said the following about what should be paid attention to in order to protect heart health during the cold winter months:
Consume foods rich in Vitamin C, especially citrus fruits, that will strengthen the immune system.
If you are in a risk group, get your flu and pneumonia vaccines when the time comes.
Pay attention to your sleep, regular nutrition, and fluid intake.
Prefer midday hours when the weather starts to warm up for walking and exercise.
Prevent cold air from coming directly to the front area of the chest; keep your jacket closed at all times.
When going outside, use accessories such as scarves that cover the mouth and neck area.
Wear thick and woolly clothing.