Manav Mander

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, December 14

As winter approaches, many people look forward to holidays and enjoying the weather. While this time of year can be a source of joy and eagerly anticipated traditions, researchers have noticed an uptick in heart attacks and strokes in the winter. People with heart ailments need to be careful during this weather.

Check salt, alcohol intake

Avoid smoking. If you do notice any of the symptoms of a heart attack such as chest pain or tightening, shortness of breath and extreme weakness, call an ambulance.
Keeping your salt and alcohol intake in check to keep your heart healthy all year long, but doing so during the winters is all the more important.

Dr Sandeep Chopra, Additional Director, Department of Cardiology at Fortis Hospital, said everyone love holiday celebrations, family, food and drink. Cooler temperatures can have significant effect on the body. blood vessels, veins and arteries constrict when body temperature drops, and blood clots more quickly at lower temperatures. Both cause the heart to work harder, which can increase the risk of heart attack.

“The majority of people who have heart attacks during the winter season are at higher risk during the rest of the year as well. They might be smokers, have high blood pressure or have diabetes. They could be overweight or not exercising regularly. Each of these risk factors coupled with circumstances that increase risk during the winter months can lead to a heart attack. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the centre of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach,” he said.

“We can prevent of this situation. Layered clothing does a better job insulating your body against the cold than one large coat. Keeping your salt and alcohol intake in check will help keep your heart healthy all year long, but doing so during the winter months is especially important. Avoid cigarette smoking at all costs. To be at your best, follow your healthy lifestyle throughout the year. If you do notice any of the symptoms of a heart attack such as chest pain or tightening, shortness of breath and extreme weakness, call an ambulance. If you are a known cardiac patient, get in touch with your treating cardiologist and schedule regular preventive check-ups,” he added further.

Another cardiologist further said that the other thing is that the end of year period is very stressful in terms of financial issues it may bring up. Anxiety and depression tend to peak for some people around the winter season and are also linked to heart attack and stroke. Take expert advice on lifestyle changes. People diagnosed with heart disease should carry emergency pills with them as suggested by doctor.