Why Do Heart Attacks Increase in Cold Mornings?

Why do heart attacks increase during cold mornings?

Scientific reasons:

1. Cold causes vasoconstriction The blood vessels supplying the heart narrow, reducing space and increasing Blood Pressure. 2. Increased platelet stickiness Blood becomes thicker, making clots form easily, leading to sudden blockage. 3. Sympathetic system becomes hyperactive Increased adrenaline causes the heart rate to rise rapidly. Higher demand but limited supply = risk. 4. Sudden getting up after sleeping all night Getting up when the body is cold and exerting effort in the bathroom shocks the heart. 5. Between 4–8 AM, 'BP Surge' and 'Heart Rate Dip' occur together This mismatch is often an invisible cause behind many cardiac arrests.

7 practical tips to prevent heart disease (for general and cardiac patients):

1. Do not go outside without warm clothes, warm water, and warming up the body. 2. Do not skip early morning exercise, but understand the timing and method; do not exercise immediately after waking. 3. Do not drink less water; blood concentrates in cold weather. 4. When waking up, first drink warm water and do gentle movements. 5. Regular medicines and morning ECG/BP check-ups are mandatory for cardiac patients. 6. Do not delay if you experience sudden dizziness, breathlessness, or chest heaviness. 7. Symptoms in winter are subtle; heart attacks can occur even without chest pain.

"Do not let cold cause a shock... take care of your heart." Taking care of your heart is today's heroic story.

Dr Ravindra L. Kulkarni, MD, DNB, FSCAI (Cardiology) Just For Hearts