Winter Wellness For Your Heart: The Importance Of Regular Health Screenings

Image credit: Freepik

Winter is known to increase the risk of cardiovascular issues due to various physiological and lifestyle factors., making it essential to prioritize proactive care and regular health screenings. Studies indicate that heart attack incidents increase by 25% during colder months, as low temperatures constrict blood vessels, raising blood pressure and forcing the heart to work harder, and heart attack-related deaths climb by 40%. 

Seasonal spikes in respiratory infections, such as influenza, which can exacerbate heart problems in individuals with existing conditions, further add to the need for prioritizing heart health during winter months. The season makes those over 60 or with chronic illnesses more vulnerable to health complications. Dr. Shelly (Mittal) Mahajan, Lab Director & Clinical Lead at Mahajan Imaging Labs shares the importance of regular health screenings of your heart in winter.

The Importance of Regular Health Screenings:

1. Early Detection: Regular screenings can identify hidden conditions like hypertension or prediabetes before they escalate into severe health issues. Key metrics to consider include BP and fasting glucose levels. Optimal BP levels should be less than 120/80 mm Hg. However, during colder months, blood pressure readings can rise due to vasoconstriction, the narrowing of blood vessels in response to cold temperatures, which puts added stress on the heart. Fasting glucose levels should be ideally below 100 mg/dL.

2. Risk Assessment: Screenings can uncover risk factors such as high LDL cholesterol, elevated triglycerides, or obesity. LDL (‘bad’ cholesterol) should ideally be below 100 mg/dL, while HDL (‘good’ cholesterol) should exceed 60 mg/dL.

3. Personalized Prevention Plans: Insights from screenings guide tailored lifestyle and medical interventions, keeping one’s unique constitution, lifestyle factors and family history in mind. These interventions are designed to not only address specific risk factors but also promote overall health. 

4. Monitoring Progress: For those with existing heart conditions, regular check-ups are crucial to track the efficacy of ongoing treatments. These appointments allow healthcare providers to track key health indicators such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and heart function, adjusting treatments as needed to ensure the best possible outcomes and prevent complications. 

Proactive Steps for Winter Heart Wellness

Stay Active: Find ways to maintain regular physical activity, such as indoor workouts or brisk walks during milder times of the day. Regular physical activity and weight management are essential parts of any prevention plan to ensure long-term cardiovascular health. 

Heart-Healthy Diet: Incorporate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, whole grains, and seasonal vegetables like spinach and kale, which are known to support cardiovascular health. Omega-3s, found in fish, like salmon and flaxseeds, help reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol. Whole grains, such as oats and quinoa, contribute to better heart health by improving blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Leafy greens like spinach and kale are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, all of which help in maintaining healthy blood vessels and heart function.

Stay Warm and Hydrated: Protect yourself from the cold with appropriate clothing and avoid sudden exposure to freezing temperatures. While less obvious in winter, staying hydrated is essential for optimal heart function as dehydration can strain the heart and elevate blood pressure. Ensure you drink enough water, even if you don’t feel thirsty, to keep your body functioning properly during colder months.

Awareness and proactive care are at the heart of winter wellness for your heart. By prioritizing regular health screenings and adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, you can safeguard your cardiovascular health and reduce the risks associated with the winter season. Remember, your heart works tirelessly for you, this winter, so make sure you work for it too.