Winter Heart Emergencies: Why Cold Weather Triggers More Valve Problems and Heart Attacks

When the temperature starts to go down, cardiologists across India prepare for the sharp seasonal spike in heart emergencies. From sudden heart attacks to worsening valve problems, winter brings a unique physiological burden that often goes unnoticed until it reaches an emergency level.

So, the editorial team of Onlymyhealth reached out to Dr Anjan Siotia, Director, Cardiology, BM Birla Heart Hospital, Kolkata, the link is clearer than ever and understand why cold weather triggers more valve problems and heart attacks. Here is everything you need to know and he shared with us.

“Every winter, we see a marked increase in cardiac emergencies, specifically heart attacks, disturbances in rhythm and decompensation in patients with valve disease. The cold weather causes the blood vessels to narrow, which in turn immediately raises the blood pressure, and hence makes the heart work harder,” Dr Soitia explained.

Why the Heart Struggles Harder in Cold Weather

According to a study published in the journal of PubMed, when the body is subjected to lower temperatures, it would want to conserve heat by vasoconstricting the skin and limbs. In simpler words, it means that this is an adaptation response which has negative side effects, such as raising blood pressure and making the heart work harder than it needs to.

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For individuals suffering from blocked arteries, valve stenosis, or long-standing hypertension, or weakened heart muscles, this sudden increase in workload might significantly reduce blood flow to the heart itself. As a result, this can lead to a higher risk of heart attack, arrhythmias, and acute heart failure. 

Dr Siotia added that even brief exposures count. “Even a sudden exposure to cold air, from stepping out early in the morning or taking a cold shower, can act as a physiological stressor and precipitate a cardiac episode,” he highlighted

Role of Increased Oxygen Demand, and Reduced Circulation for Heart Health

Winters bring another subtle, often overlooked challenge, i.e. the body's oxygen requirement which rises. While the constricted blood vessels limit circulation to the extremities, a mismatch can put an extra burden on the heart.

For patients with valve diseases, particularly aortic stenosis, this may be especially harmful. If the area of the valve orifice is already small, the added pressure load may cause sudden breathlessness, fainting, chest discomfort, or even collapse.

Lifestyle Changes That Contribute to Heart Attack Risk

Winter is also a time when routines slip. People tend to move less, skip workouts, indulge more in heavy foods, and sometimes even forget or delay medicines around travel or holiday schedules.

These behavioural patterns compound physiological risks, including reduced exercise, increased blood pressure and cholesterol levels, while missed medications, particularly blood thinners, antihypertensives, and heart failure drugs, can destabilise hitherto controlled conditions.

Who's At Most Heart Attack Risk During Winter?

While everyone's heart works harder during cold months, some groups should show extra caution. Such as:

• People with known coronary artery disease
• Those with certain types of valve disorders, especially aortic or mitral stenosis
• Hypertension cases or people with high cholesterol
• Older adults who have diminished cardiac reserve
• People with any history of congestive heart failure
• Smokers, diabetics, and people leading a sedentary lifestyle

“Chest tightness, dizziness, jaw, or arm pain, palpitations, swelling in the legs, or sudden breathlessness are some symptoms that should never be ignored, particularly during winters,” added Dr Siotia.

How to Protect Your Heart In Winter

Dr. Siotia recommended something simple yet lifesaving. He shared, "Keep warm, take medications regularly, avoid early-morning exertion, and seek immediate help for symptoms like chest pain, breathlessness or unusual fatigue. Winter heart emergencies are preventable when people remain aware of their vulnerabilities and respond promptly to warning signs."

Additionally, simple habits can make a measurable difference. Here are some expert-approved bonus tips by our expert:

• Dress in layers and avoid sudden temperature changes.
• Prefer indoor exercise/take a walk after the sunrise
• Stay hydrated and maintain a regular sleep pattern
• Eat warm, heart-friendly meals
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
• Never skip heart medicines that have been prescribed for you.

Bottomline

Cold weather puts additional pressure on the heart, so winter is a time of year when people with valve problems, blockages and hypertension are particularly at risk. Experts share that with awareness and preventive habits, most winter heart emergencies can be avoided.