Avoiding heart hazards through winter

(NC)-On hot, hazy summer days, it's common to hear warnings about how humidity can negatively affect older adults and people with asthma and other chronic illnesses. But what do we know about the dangers of cold weather?

"Heart related deaths increase by about 20 percent in winter months," said Dr. Paul Oh, the medical director of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Program at Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, Canada's largest provider of adult rehabilitation services.

"There is approximately a one per cent increase in death due to heart disease for every one degree C drop in temperature," added Dr. Oh. "The number of deaths due to cardiovascular disease peaks within one to three days following a cold snap."

Why? Exposure to cold causes an immediate increase in blood pressure and increased heart rate. Cold weather aggravates chronic health conditions, such as hypertension and respiratory disease, and increases the risk of falling.

Activities such as snow shoveling are particularly hazardous because the physical demand is so high and the body hasn't had a chance to warm up. Winter months are also associated with physical, mental and social pressures - eating and drinking too much, depression and anxiety, family and finances. All of these can take a toll on the heart.

But that doesn't mean you should hibernate this winter just because you have heart disease. "Everyone can benefit from crisp fresh air and exercise," Dr. Oh added.

"Exercising is a great way to unburden some of these stresses while improving your fitness. In cold weather, be sure to take precautions - dress in layers, wear a hat, scarf and gloves, and avoid alcohol. Also pay attention to the weather report and find an indoor exercise location if the temperature is less than -10 degrees C (including wind chill)."