- By Iram Hussain
- Tue, 17 Dec 2024 06:33 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Winter brings specific difficulties for heart health, especially for those susceptible to heart failure. The chilly temperatures can tighten blood vessels, raise blood pressure and enhance the heart's strain, rendering it more susceptible to stress. Furthermore, changes in seasons frequently lead to decreased physical activity, poor dietary choices and an increased likelihood of respiratory infection, all of which can put pressure on the cardiovascular system. Heart failure is a persistent condition in which the heart muscle is either excessively weak and unable to pump effectively or too rigid to adequately fill the heart chamber.
In both instances, the heart cannot meet the body's needs due to inadequate circulation, resulting in an insufficient blood supply. Common symptoms that patients often face include shortness of breath at rest, during activities or when lying down flat, swelling in the legs, ankles and feet, palpitations, diminished appetite, fatigue, nausea, weight gain due to fluid retention and chest pain that is secondary to a heart attack.
In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Ajay Kaul, Chairman, Cardiac Science, Fortis Hospital, Noida listed simple and effective ways to reduce heart failure risk in winter.
Ways To Reduce The Risk Of Heart Failure In Winter
Keep Yourself Warm
Layer up with warm clothing, including gloves, scarves, and hats to keep your body warm to prevent blood vessel constriction.
Moderate Regular Exercise
Aim for light-to-moderate activities such as walking, yoga, or resistance training and to avoid overstraining your heart exercise indoors if it’s too cold outside. Additionally, avoid sudden, intense activities like shovelling snow, which can strain the heart.
Monitor Blood Pressure
It is important to monitor the blood pressure regularly as it might increase during cold.
Stress Management
Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or mindfulness as seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and winter stress can impact heart health.
Restrain From Overeating/ Avoid Unhealthy Winter Comfort Foods
Follow a heart-healthy diet, low in salt and rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. It is important to limit consumption of high-sugar, high-fat, and salty foods. Individuals can include heart-friendly ingredients like nuts, fish rich in omega-3s, and leafy greens.
Get Vaccinated Against Flu and Pneumonia
Respiratory infections can strain the heart and exacerbate heart failure symptoms.
Therefore, for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. It is important to stay up-to-date with flu and pneumococcal vaccines.
Refrain From Smoking and Overindulging in Alcohol
Smoking may narrow blood vessels and decrease the amount of oxygen reaching the heart. Drinking too much alcohol can damage heart muscles and raise blood pressure.
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