With the onset of winter, health experts warn of an increased risk of heart-related disorders, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, individuals with diabetes, high blood pressure, and those with existing heart or lung diseases. Cold weather, generally defined as temperatures around 10 degrees Celsius or lower, causes several physiological changes in the body. Blood vessels constrict to conserve heat, including the arteries supplying the heart, leading to a rise in blood pressure and increased workload on the heart. Reduced daylight hours during winter also affect circadian rhythms, resulting in elevated cortisol levels, which further contribute to cardiovascular strain.
Doctors note that many established risk factors for heart attacks worsen during the winter months. Physical inactivity, increased consumption of high-fat foods, weight gain, and reduced intake of fruits and vegetables are common seasonal habits. Smoking rates also tend to increase, while blood pressure and blood sugar control often deteriorate in patients with hypertension and diabetes. In addition, gloomy weather and prolonged indoor confinement may trigger anxiety and depression, indirectly affecting heart health. Inflammation of the coronary arteries plays a key role in the development of heart attacks. Research shows that inflammatory markers such as hs-CRP, sVCAM-1, and sICAM-1 rise significantly during colder months, especially in elderly individuals.
“Although winter elevates the risk of heart disease, you can mitigate these dangers through proactive health screenings, healthy lifestyle changes, and strictly following medical guidance.”
Seasonal viral infections including influenza and pneumonia further increase inflammation, adding to cardiac risk. Air pollution is another major concern, particularly in North India, including Jammu and surrounding regions. Fine particulate matter can enter the bloodstream through the lungs, inflame blood vessels, and promote clot formation, thereby increasing the likelihood of heart attacks.Health professionals recommend a complete health check-up at the start of winter, including blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglyceride testing. Any abnormal findings should be promptly addressed with medical consultation.
Regular physical activity is strongly advised, though exercise should be started gradually, especially for those who are not accustomed to it.
Sudden or vigorous exertion should be avoided. Individuals with diabetes, hypertension, or high cholesterol are encouraged to undergo exercise testing with ECG monitoring before beginning structured exercise programs. Maintaining blood pressure below 140/90 mmHg, fasting blood sugar under 120 mg/dl, and total cholesterol below 150 mg/dl is essential. Avoidance of tobacco and alcohol, weight control, and a diet rich in fruits and vegetables are emphasized as effective preventive measures. Experts conclude that while winter increases the risk of heart-related illnesses, most of these risks can be significantly reduced through early health screening, lifestyle modification, and adherence to medical advice.
(The author is pursing B Sc Nursing at Desh Bhagat University Mandigobindgard Punjab. The views, opinions and conclusions expressed in this article are those of the author and aren’t necessarily in accord with the views of “Kashmir Horizon”)
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