Winter can be a dangerous time for heart attacks. Learn about the signs, symptoms, and preventive care from senior consultant cardiologist – Dr(Col) Monik Mehta
Cold temperatures cause blood vessels to constrict, making blood flow to the heart more difficult. Blood vessel constriction in response to cold temperatures is a normal physiological response that aids the body in retaining heat. However, in people who have underlying cardiovascular disease, this constriction can result in decreased blood flow to the heart, increasing the risk of heart attack and other cardiac events.
Cold temperatures can also raise blood pressure by increasing heart rate and peripheral vascular resistance, putting additional strain on the heart.
To reduce this risk, follow the recommendations of Dr. Monik Mehta – Top Cardiologist in Gurgaon.
- Dress in layers to stay warm – Wearing layers keeps heat trapped between them, keeping you warmer. A material that draws moisture away from your skin, such wool or synthetic materials like polyester, should be used for the innermost layer.
- Maintain an active lifestyle – Regular physical activity can help improve cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of having a heart attack. Prefer indoor activities such as yoga, light exercises, and meditation in the winter, and avoid exercising during early mornings and late evenings when the weather is extremely cold. Keeping active and exercising on a regular basis is critical during the winter months.
- Diet – Consume a lot of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Avoid foods that are fried, fatty, sweet, or high in cholesterol, as these can increase your risk of heart disease.
- Quit tobacco – Smoking can increase the risk of heart attack. Avoid consumption of any form of tobacco use
- Limit alcohol consumption – Drinking too much alcohol increases the risk of having a heart attack. Alcohol may be consumed in moderation, if at all.
- Do not ignore symptoms of illness – seek medical attention as soon as possible. The sooner medical treatment begins, the better the chances of survival and preventing heart damage.
- Take care of any underlying medical conditions – This may require taking prescribed medications, making lifestyle changes, and seeing your doctor on a regular basis. Do not skip your regular medication and do not change the dosage of any medication without first consulting your treating doctor.
The cold weather may be hard on your heart. Some heart conditions may necessitate immediate medical attention. As a result, it is best to be on the lookout for the symptoms and seek immediate medical attention from a cardiologist in Gurgaon. A delay in diagnosis or treatment may increase the risk of complications or prove fatal.
To Book an appointment with our Cardiologist:
Dr. Monik Mehta (MBBS, MD, DM, FACC)
Interventional Cardiologist, Cardiologist, Cardiac Electrophysiologist
24*7 Helpline No. +91–9873214382
Email: heartcare@healthyheartsgurgaon.com
Website: www.healthyheartsgurgaon.com