Winter means cooler temperatures and the holiday season, but did
you know it also brings an increased risk of heart attack?
Studies show the risk of dying from a heart attack is greater in
the winter than at any other time of year, with cardiac
mortality at its highest in December and January, according to a
2004 study. While the reasons for the increase in heart attacks
are complex – including changes in hormone, stress and exertion
levels – you can take steps to reduce your risk. "There are
several reasons heart attacks are more frequent in winter", said
Dr. Gordon Knight, cardiothoracic surgeon at Des Peres Hospital.
"First, during the winter months, changes in hormonal balances
put individuals at greater risk for cardiovascular problems. In
addition, the colder temperatures cause arteries to tighten,
restricting blood flow, reducing oxygen to the heart and causing
blood pressure to increase, all of which can set the stage for a
heart attack, especially in plaque-clogged arteries." Dr. Knight
also explaine