Frigid temperatures can affect the body in many ways, but they can be especially hard on your heart.
Experts say people with heart disease or high blood pressure should avoid exerting themselves in the cold.
Simply being outside already puts a strain on the body.
Whether it’s shoveling snow or scraping your car, winter weather can be hard work—especially for your heart.
Cardiologist Dr. Tamanna Singh explains that when you go out into very chilly weather, your body is exposed to a stressor, especially if the climate is very different from what you’re used to.
Doing something physically challenging in the cold adds to that stress.
Dr. Singh says our bodies work harder to maintain core temperature by keeping heat near vital organs.
As blood vessels tighten, blood pressure and heart rate both rise.
For those with existing heart problems, this can be dangerous.
“This is why we tend to see a number of heart attacks or cardiac consequences when people are shoveling snow or doing a lot of heavy effort, high-intense work in cold weather or snowy conditions,” said Singh.
If you must go outside, dress in layers and wear sweat-wicking clothing closest to your skin.
Cover your head and ears, and wear gloves and thick wool socks.
Dr. Singh advises taking breaks if you’re shoveling and asking for help.
She also recommends doing heavy work during the warmest part of the day, such as in the sun.
Be aware of red flag symptoms, including chest pain or discomfort, jaw pain or tightness, and general unease.
If something feels off, get inside and call 9-1-1 immediately.
“I definitely encourage all of my patients to be safe rather than sorry in these situations,” Singh said.