How Does Cold Weather Affect the Heart? Tips to Protect Cardiovascular Health in Winter

Intense cold and low temperatures affect our health, especially our cardiovascular health in winter. Various studies have shown that the risk of a heart attack can increase by up to 30% during the coldest months and, in addition, that deaths related to cardiovascular diseases are usually more frequent in winter. Read on and discover how cold weather affects the heart.

What happens to our heart in winter?

What happens to our cardiovascular health in winter is that cold weather raises blood pressure, because blood vessels constrict in the cold, causing this increase in pressure as a result. This also has a direct impact on the heart, which has to work faster to maintain body temperature, so cold weather also increases the heart rate. All of this, together with the fact that physical activity commonly decreases in winter, contributes to a higher cardiovascular risk.

For this reason, it is very important to understand the risks and take steps to protect the heart from the cold.

Warning signs related to your cardiovascular health in winter

• Chest pain or pressure: resulting from the fact that cold weather increases blood pressure.
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing: due to pulmonary hypertension.
• Dizziness or fainting.
• Pain that spreads to the left arm, neck or jaw.
• Irregular or rapid heartbeat: because cold weather increases the heart rate.
• Swelling in the feet or ankles: as cold weather raises blood pressure.

Recommendations to protect the heart from the cold in winter

With preventive measures and a healthy lifestyle, it is possible to stay protected and enjoy this season with peace of mind. To protect your cardiovascular health during winter, follow these recommendations:

• Wrap up properly: wear thermal clothing and gloves to keep your body warm and avoid vasoconstriction.
• Avoid sudden temperature changes: try not to expose yourself suddenly to the cold, and make temperature changes as gradual as possible.
• Maintain a healthy diet: include foods rich in omega-3, fruit, vegetables and wholegrains to protect the heart.
• Do regular physical activity: exercise is key to maintaining good circulation.
• Get vaccinated against flu and pneumococcus: these respiratory illnesses can worsen cardiovascular problems.
• Manage stress: practise relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga.
• Speak to your doctor: if you have cardiovascular risk factors, follow your healthcare professional's advice and do not neglect regular check-ups.