The colder months of the year are known to put us at increased risk of cardiac issues.
WT Ellis said, “It is Christmas in the heart that puts Christmas in the air.” Unfortunately, the cold Christmas air puts extra strain on the physical heart! Many studies have shown that cardiac issues leading to hospitalizations and even deaths, occur with greater frequency during the winter months (Science Daily, 2017). Conditions such as Heart Attack and Congestive Heart Failure are especially known to flare up during the cold months, causing increased need for cardiac care.
There are several things during the colder time of year that put us at greater risk for needing cardiac care:
- Cold weather
- Pressure fronts- fog and clouds
- Decreased exercise and activity (take caution to not walk outside if it is too cold)
- Stress/ anxiety- holiday to do list, relational issues, missing a loved one
- Diet changes- increased sodium, fat, sugar
- Forgetting to take medication
- Right after getting an infection
It is important to know that during the winter, while flu and pneumonia are at their peak, the first 7 days after getting an infection we are at greater risk for cardiac issues (Roane, 2017).
But take heart; there are things we can do to be prepared and minimize the threat to our cardiac health.
Factors that decrease cardiac risk:
- Being aware of the signs and symptoms
- Planning ahead for snow shoveling. Get help, be very cautious doing it yourself- especially if you are at risk. I knew a middle aged gentleman who had a heart attack and died after shoveling snow. If you must do it, warm up first, take LOTS of breaks, stay hydrated, and pay attention to how you are feeling.
- Setting up medication reminders
- Providing healthy food options- low sodium, low sugar, and low fat
- Providing options for exercise indoors
- Taking a CPR class
- Staying in touch with your health care team
- Monitoring your weight and blood pressure faithfully
Be proactive! Check out this mechanical blood pressure cuff, to monitor your blood pressure at home. (affiliate link)
And a pulse oximeter to monitor your oxygen saturation and heart rate. (affiliate link)
Download and print this freebie vitals log to stay organized!
Be proactive and stay educated on the warning signs of cardiac issues:
Know the warning signs of heart failure
Know the warning signs of heart attack
Here is a link to a “Cardiac Educational Packet” on Etsy, that you can edit and use for improved follow through: vitals, walking log, transfer safety, energy conservation, and post hospitalization instructions with blanks to fill in as appropriate!
You may also want to read: CARDIAC MEDICATION PRECAUTIONS
What steps do you take to keep yourself or clients safe through the winter? Refresh your organized health journey by subscribing to the blog for a packet of health printable freebies, and weekly tips on senior health.
Everyone should take good care of their health, especially in the cold weather. Thank you for sharing an insightful post.
Great information. I was unaware that exercising in too cold weather can lead to cardiac problems.
Incredibly helpful and resourceful reminder! Wintertime is notoriously known for cold and flu ailments and yet cardiac issues and its preventative care are not as considered. I appreciate your sharing the CPR class suggestion too!
This is an excellent post! Such good information! Something people take for granted. I know someone who had a heart attack and passed away after shoveling snow. Very sad. My uncle had heart problems and passed away outside in the cold while walking the dog. This is serious and I love how your post reminds readers of this.