Cold weather raises heart attack risk, cardiologists warn

CINCINNATI (WKRC) — As colder weather and snow set in, cardiologists are warning that the risk of heart attacks and sudden death increases. The harsh conditions not only make daily activities more challenging but can also be hard on the heart for several reasons.

Dr. Eugene Chung, a heart failure physician at Christ Hospital, explained the body’s response to cold weather.

“The most immediate thing that occurs is that your body goes into survival mode. And it has to survive the cold,” Chung said. “So the first thing that happens is your body goes through a state of sympathetic activation or adrenaline starts flowing.”

This response can constrict veins and arteries, driving up blood pressure. “You start shivering, which is a way to really create heat. So the effect of all that is to raise your blood pressure and heart rate and puts more stress on the heart,” Chung added.

Interventional cardiologist Dr. Puvi Seshiah emphasized the dangers of snow shoveling, particularly for those with a history of heart problems.

“Shoveling snow can be very dangerous for our heart patients. It increases heart attacks, and we have patients die suddenly while trying to clear the snow,” Seshiah said.

The American Heart Association offers several suggestions to reduce the risk of heart events during cold weather and snow removal. They recommend taking frequent breaks, avoiding alcohol before or immediately after shoveling snow, and dressing in layers to prevent hypothermia. If you experience chest heaviness or tightness that doesn’t subside when you go back inside, they advise calling 911 immediately.