In cold weather, your heart works harder than usual to regulate your body temperature. Coupled with common stressors, such as holiday planning or diminished social interactions, your heart may wind up working overtime.
How Does Cold Weather Affect the Heart?
In order to prevent your core body temperature from dropping, your blood vessels will constrict so that less heat is lost. However, this puts your heart under pressure to pump blood more energetically to circulate it through narrowed veins. Both your blood pressure and heart rate will rise as a response to this, contributing to circulatory or heart issues. Support your heart health by managing existing conditions, staying warm, and following safety tips when exercising.
Managing Existing Conditions
Living with heart or circulatory conditions? Stick to your medication schedule to help your heart stay strong. Stay on top of picking up your prescriptions and set reminders for times to take your pills. Get regular physical activity and eat a balanced diet to lower your risk for developing other health issues that might add to pressure placed on the heart.
Staying Warm
Wear wintertime accessories such as a scarf, mittens, and a hat, to minimize the dissipation of body heat. Don layers of clothing that are loose, because the warmer air between layers can help you maintain a comfortable temperature
Safety Guidelines for Wintertime Exercise
When exercising outdoors, dress properly to protect you from the elements. To prevent yourself from getting too cold or too warm, dress in layers. Start with a moisture-wicking inner layer to prevent sweat from being trapped underneath your outer layers.
Remember also to watch out for slippery surfaces. Wear rubber-soled, non-skid surfaces during exercise, and scan the sidewalks for slippery areas before you use them.
Let Presidio Home Care's attentive Home Care Aides look out for your loved one's heart health this winter season. From sharing medication reminders, to cooking heart-healthy meals, to exercising with your loved one, our team is here for you. Contact us today to learn how we can help.
Comments