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Your Cold, Cold Heart Winter increases the occurrence of heart problems - here's how to cut the risks 
The holidays can take a lot out of a person, but just make sure it doesn't leave you weak of heart. According to Dr. Cam Patterson, M.D, chief of cardiology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, the risk of severe heart problems increases by more than 30 percent during the winter months. According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is still the number one cause of death and disability in the United States. Cold weather itself can increase the likelihood of acute heart events. Patterson says that icy conditions won't cause new heart problems but they can exacerbate existing, frequently silent heart disease. "It's unclear why, but we do know that cold weather increases blood pressure and the thickness, or viscosity, of blood, either of which can trigger a cardiac event," Patterson says. Vigorous activities such as shoveling snow and starting a strenuous exercise routine may be detrimental in cold weather. Moderation and knowing the limits of your body are the keys to avoiding heart issues. Also, avoid excessive alcohol consumption, which can lead to a rapid, irregular heart rhythm called atrial fibrillation. This time of year medical professionals call it "holiday heart," a frequent cause for emergency room visits in the winter months. Holiday stress can bring about bouts of depression, which has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, and the familial strife can trigger severe symptoms. Also, lacking motivation to exercise or to eat a healthy diet can also contribute to depression. Patterson says ward off depression people should keeping busy, watch their diets and exercise regularly, all of which will help your overall health, too. |
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