With its warm soups, warm sweaters, and joyous get-togethers or not-to-forget Indian weddings!; winter has its allure. Winter may seem beautiful, but it also increases the risk of heart attacks and conditions leading to one by 14-20%. Yes, a fact that many studies have shown concern for. (NIH-NLB). The impact of cold weather on the heart is often underestimated.
We’ve spent years at SAAOL Heart Centre helping individuals safeguard their hearts, particularly during crucial times like the winter. Continue reading to find out why winter heart attacks occur and what you can do to prevent them. This blog explains everything clearly and demonstrates how SAAOL Heartcare Delhi may be your go-to heart health companion.
Why Do Heart Attacks Happen More in the Winter?
Heart health may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about winter. However, there is a definite link between heart attacks and cold weather, and here’s why:
- Blood Vessels Constrict in Cold Weather
Did you know? Your body instantly responds to the cold air by constricting your blood vessels to retain heat. Although your body uses this as a natural defense, it also causes your blood pressure to rise and your heart to work harder.
- Lack of Physical Activity
When you go for a morning walk in the winter, how frequently do you press the snooze button? When it’s chilly outdoors, it can be tempting to stay in bed. However, if you are less active, your heart will not receive the regular exercise it needs to be healthy.
- Eating too many comfort foods
Winter meals are filling, substantial, and, let’s be honest, mostly rich in sweets and bad fats. Although these goodies make you happy, they can also raise your risk of heart disease by causing cholesterol to accumulate.
- A rise in infections of the respiratory system
Colds and the flu are common in the winter and can worsen heart health by increasing inflammation in the body. Minor infections can be dangerous for those who already have heart problems.
- Depression and Winter Stress
Winter’s long nights and short days can cause Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which makes you feel depressed. (NIMH). You didn’t know that, right? Not only are stress and sadness mental health issues, but they also directly affect heart health.
How You Are Protected by SAAOL Heart Centre
We at SAAOL have created a comprehensive, scientifically supported strategy for heart care that will help you get through the winter safely and with assurance. This is how we go about it:
- Your Heart’s Winter Shield: Enhanced External Counterpulsation (EECP)
Let us introduce you to EECP, a revolutionary therapy if you have never heard of it. EECP is a non-invasive procedure that increases heart blood flow without requiring surgery.
How Is EECP Beneficial During the Winter?
-By increasing circulation, it mitigates the effects of blood vessel constriction brought on by cold.
-It lessens the strain on your heart, allowing it to rest and heal.
-For those who prefer non-invasive treatments, it is perfect because it is painless and safe.
According to many SAAOL patients, EECP is like a cozy, comfortable winter hug for their hearts!
- Tailored Nutrition Programs
Winter is largely about food, and at SAAOL, we help you enjoy it in moderation. Heart-healthy eating regimens that balance enjoyment and health are developed by our dietitians.
What’s on the Menu?
-Soups that are warm and full of seasonal vegetables.
-Flavourful dishes made with Zero-oil cooking and your family’s love.
-Herbal teas that help you relax and increase circulation.
You can enjoy your wintertime favorites in moderation; you don’t have to give them up.
- Programs for Stress Management
Although stress management is one of our specialties, winter blues may hit hard. Simple methods like mindfulness, yoga, and meditation are prioritized at SAAOL to help you maintain mental and emotional equilibrium.
Why It Is Important
Stress increases the risk of heart attacks and raises blood pressure. In addition to protecting your emotional well-being, stress management also protects your heart.
- Frequent examinations and Observation: Prevention is always preferable to treatment. For this reason, we advise routine cardiac exams, particularly in the winter. Our advanced diagnostic equipment and consultations at SAAOL guarantee that you stay ahead of any possible problems.
How to Keep Your Heart Safe This Winter
Even while SAAOL provides professional treatment, there are easy things you can do at home to protect your heart in the winter.
- Wear layers of clothing
The burden on your heart is reduced when you stay warm. Layering is important, especially if you’re going outside.
- Continue to Be Active
Maintaining heart health doesn’t require you to run a marathon. Yoga, stretching, and even dancing are easy indoor workouts that can have a significant impact.
- Consume Foods that are Good for Your Heart
Include more whole foods, fruits, and veggies. Include grains in your diet. Oranges, carrots, spinach, and other seasonal produce are great options.
- Drink plenty of water
Wintertime makes it easy to forget to drink water, yet maintaining enough hydration is crucial for healthy circulation.
- Get vaccinated against influenza
You can prevent inflammation and other problems in your heart by protecting yourself from the flu.
FAQs Regarding Heart Care in the Winter
Q: Is everyone safe using EECP?
Indeed! People of all ages can safely and non-invasively undergo EECP. It is particularly beneficial for people who already have heart issues.
Q: Is it possible to prevent heart attacks by lifestyle modifications?
Of course. Your risk can be considerably reduced by adopting easy practices like stress management, a balanced diet, and frequent exercise.
Q: Is it possible to get online consultations from SAAOL?
Indeed, we do! Our professionals are available online if you are unable to come see us in person.
Why Choose SAAOL Heart Centre?
Not only do we cure heart diseases at SAAOL, but we also transform lives. Our all-encompassing, non-invasive method guarantees you receive the greatest care possible without having to deal with the anxiety of surgery or taking a lot of medicine.
We are here to help you at every stage, whether it is through EECP, customized meal planning, or stress-reduction initiatives.
Conclusion:
Although they can be avoided, winter heart attacks are a serious issue. You may enjoy the season without worrying about your heart if you take the proper care of it, follow the right advice, and put in a little work.
Our goal at SAAOL Heart Centre is to support you in leading the healthiest possible life. Don’t just bundle up this winter; instead, take control of your heart health with SAAOL at your side.
Are you prepared for winter? Make an appointment with SAAOL right now to start along the path to a happier, healthier version of yourself!