The effect of cold on the heart: causes of risks and methods of prevention

With the arrival of winter and the significant drop in temperatures, health challenges extend beyond colds and flu, posing a silent threat to the heart. The human body doesn't treat extreme cold as a mere passing weather event; instead, it enters a complex physiological state of alert primarily aimed at maintaining the internal temperature of vital organs.

The body's physiological response

This automatic response begins with a process known as vasoconstriction, in which arteries and blood vessels, especially those near the skin's surface and in the extremities, constrict to reduce heat loss. While this process is vital for staying warm, it places an additional mechanical burden on the heart; the narrowing of blood vessels leads to a sudden and noticeable increase in blood pressure, forcing the heart to work harder to pump blood throughout the body.

Why does the risk increase in winter?

Global medical statistics and epidemiological studies indicate a direct correlation between lower temperatures and increased mortality rates from cardiovascular diseases. In addition to raising blood pressure, cold temperatures increase blood viscosity and elevate levels of certain proteins responsible for clotting (such as fibrinogen), thus increasing the likelihood of blood clot formation. These biological changes make winter a critical season for patients with atherosclerosis and chronic heart disease, as the chances of angina attacks and heart attacks increase, particularly in the early morning hours, which witness natural hormonal and physiological changes that increase cardiac workload.

Warning signs

It is essential to pay attention to the body's signals, as the patient often experiences discomfort, a heavy pressure in the chest area, and pain that may radiate to the arms (especially the left), wrists, or jaw. These symptoms often appear most pronounced after physical exertion in cold weather and gradually subside with rest, warming the body, or taking vasodilators.

Heart prevention and protection measures

To reduce these risks, doctors and specialists recommend following strict preventive strategies during cold waves:

• Good wrapping: Wear multiple layers of winter clothing to retain body heat, focusing on covering the head and hands to reduce heat loss.
• Avoid heat shock: Be careful when moving suddenly from very warm places to cold environments.
• Physical exertion management: Limit strenuous outdoor sports or physical activity, especially in the early morning.
• Stay dry: Avoid staying in clothes wet from rain or sweat, as wetness increases the rate at which the body loses heat.

In conclusion, any chest pain should not be ignored or considered merely a digestive upset. Early diagnosis and immediate medical assistance when experiencing symptoms of a heart attack is the crucial step to saving a life.