ArabiaWeather - when the cold weather, the body system mobilizes all his energies to fight the low temperatures in the winter and maintain separation of body temperature at 37 ° C, but unknown to many is that in order to keep the body system on the degree of this temperature, the heart begins to throb Faster, so its need for oxygen increases.
Moreover, the cold causes dehydration, which reduces blood flow, and this again requires increased heart effort in order for the body to function properly.
Who are the people most at risk of cold and a significant drop in temperature?
- People with cardiovascular disease, such as high blood pressure, heart failure, angina, people who have already had myocardial infarction, who have undergone heart surgery and who have had a stroke, are most at risk during periods of extreme cold.
- People over the age of 70, even without being at risk of cardiovascular disease, because with age, the ability of the body's systems to adapt to changes in temperature decreases. In addition, the subcutaneous fat layer becomes less with age, making them more likely to experience hypothermia. This decrease in body temperature occurs when the body cannot produce enough energy to keep the body temperature above 35 ° C.
- Smokers, regardless of age , are also at risk because a cold with stress and tobacco is a combination that significantly increases the risk of myocardial infarction.
Is there a correlation between cold weather and risk of heart attack?
Precautions in cold weather
- Avoid any difficult or harsh effort without taking appropriate measures to adapt to the drop in temperature.
- Wear many layers of clothing, which help to trap air inside the layers and form an insulating firewall for the body.
- Be aware of other unusual symptoms: Chest pain or malaise in the chest area are not the only signs to call a doctor. Other signs such as heart palpitations, shortness of breath and dizziness should not be underestimated.
Recommendations for heart patients: Take care of your health in the winter