Published on 2nd January 2025
When we think of health-related issues arising in winter, often we consider the seasonal flu, pneumonia and in extreme cases frost bite. We don’t always consider the effects of the cold on our organs. However, the heart is especially susceptible to changes in body temperature. This blog covers some of the issues faced by your heart in colder environments and how to stay safe this winter.
Unsurprisingly, as temperatures drop in the winter, one of the most effective ways to safeguard your heart health is to keep warm. Dressing in layers and ensuring your home is adequately heated can help your body minimise the constriction of blood vessels. The NHS recommends maintaining a household temperature of at least 18°C (64°F) to avoid vasoconstriction and the accompanying bodily changes.
Vasoconstriction, the process by which blood vessels narrow, occurs in cold weather to help maintain the body’s core temperature by reducing blood flow to the skin and shunting blood to deeper tissues. This can significantly affect individuals with coronary heart disease because constricted blood vessels contribute to increased blood pressure and reduced blood flow to the heart, consequently raising the risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular complications.
Regular checks on your blood pressure can be invaluable in managing potential spikes caused by the cold weather. Research indicates that for every 1°C decrease in temperature, cardiovascular disease-related mortality increases by 1.6%, while morbidity rises by 1.2%, so diligently monitoring your blood pressure is crucial for assessing your cardiovascular health during freezing periods.
Indoor physical activity is an excellent way to enjoy exercise while avoiding the risks that cold weather may bring. Since frigid conditions can aggravate symptoms for individuals with heart conditions, it’s wise to refrain from strenuous activities such as shovelling snow or trudging through heavy, wet snow during winter.
A nutritious diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fruits, and vegetables significantly promotes heart health. A heart-healthy diet can help manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease. It is equally important to limit your consumption of saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol, as these can contribute to heart health issues.
Visiting a healthcare provider for regular check-ups is vital for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. These appointments are essential for monitoring heart health and ensuring treatment plans remain practical and up to date.
Esteemed organisations such as the British Heart Foundation, NHS, and American Heart Association are dedicated to raising awareness about the heightened health risks of cold weather. The British Heart Foundation has documented that the winter months see thousands of additional deaths from heart and circulatory diseases.
Their research shows that cold weather can double the likelihood of experiencing a heart attack or stroke. The NHS has reported that heart attacks tend to be more frequent during colder spells, accounting for 40% of excess winter deaths and related hospital admissions.
Notably, a study published in the journal of the American Heart Association revealed that more cardiac fatalities occur in the United States on December 25 than on any other day of the year, with December 26 and January 1 not far behind. Furthermore, research in the British Medical Journal indicated a 15% increase in heart attacks among the elderly population during the holiday season over a span of more than 16 years.
With the increased chance of cardiac events during the winter, the presence of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) becomes even more critical. Easily accessible AEDs in parks, shopping centres, and workplaces are essential for saving lives. However, the cold weather can affect the performance and functionality of these life-saving machines. Low temperatures may deplete batteries more quickly and freeze the gel on the adhesive pads of the electrodes, which can render them inoperable during an emergency. Consequently, proper storage and maintenance of AEDs become paramount in winter.
Outdoor AED Cabinets are specifically designed to shield AEDs from harsh weather conditions, ensuring they are ready for use when needed. Key features of Martek Lifecare’s Outdoor cabinet include:
Martek Lifecare also offers two securing options for the cabinets:
These cabinets are essential for maintaining heart health during winter by ensuring AEDs are stored at the optimal operating temperature, even in cold conditions. Once registered with your local ambulance service, each cabinet is equipped with a unique location code. This crucial feature enables emergency services and first responders to identify the AED’s location quickly, ensuring timely and efficient response times.
For further information regarding our range of defibrillators and related storage accessories, contact a member of the Martek Lifecare team today.
Rob Higgie, Regional Sales Manager at Martek Lifecare, is an experienced community first responder with 11 years of experience in the field, and as of January 2023, he’s attended 86 cardiac arrests, resulting in 28 ROSCs (return of spontaneous circulation).