What do you want to do?

February 17, 2017 1681
Winters are a delicate period for people suffering from heart ailments. Various scientific studies have established that there is a 50% increase in the incidences of heart attacks during the winters. As the temperature plummets, your heart has to work harder to maintain your body temperature. When the cold hits, your veins and arteries shrink which reduces blood flow and restricts oxygen supply. Additionally, the reduced daylight and staying indoors due to harsh weather leads to lack of vitamin D, which in turn increases the risk of developing cardiac problems. Hence, it is very important for cardiac patients to be extra careful during winters. Follow these tips to avoid cardiac problems during winters:-

1. Avoid Chilly Morning Walks before Sunrise

While physical activities such as morning walks are very beneficial for heart patients, it’s best to avoid going out on a cold morning without the sun. The extreme cold can spike your blood pressure and make your heart work faster. Hence, it is advisable to go out for a walk just after sunrise or during the evening when there is mild sun. That way, you can even get a healthy dose of Vitamin D.

2. Follow Your Exercise Routine Religiously

It’s common to feel lethargic during the winters. However, it’s very important to maintain your regular exercise routine. Irregular exercise can have an adverse effect on your heart. Also, ensure to warm up adequately before working out to avoid sudden stress to your heart.

3. Have Meals and Medications on Time

Avoid skipping meals and indulging in oily food during the winters. Eat your meals on time and include a plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet.Take your medications regularly and drink plenty of water.  Additionally, consult your doctor before the winters to ensure that you are taking the right medication.

4. Avoid Stress

It’s a widely known fact that stress has a detrimental effect on your heart. Since your heart has to work harder during the winters, additional mental stress can affect your heart. Practice meditation, do yoga and learn to deal with your problems positively. If you are worried about your heart, take up the HDFC Life Cardiac Care plan, which will give you much-needed peace of mind.

5. Build-Up Your Immunity

Winters are notorious for the breakout of infections. This happens because your body’s immune system hits a low during winters, which leads to infections such as flu. Avoiding such infections is the best way to stay healthy. However, if you happen to catch a fever or cold, ensure that you get it treated by a doctor as soon as possible.

Related Articles :

 

Show Full Article
Hide Full Article

Buy Health Insurance

 

ARN: ED/07/19/14590

Francis Rodrigues
Written By:
Vishal Subharwal
Reviewed By: