Cold weather exposure can increase the risk of cardiac responses, including heart attacks. This is because blood vessels respond to low temperatures by constricting, which increases blood pressure and reduces circulation, putting strain on the heart.
A heart attack, or myocardial infarction, occurs when something creates a blockage in the blood vessels, usually a blood clot, causing a sudden interruption to the blood flowing to the heart. Doctors classify heart attacks as an emergency, as they
Cold weather
This article discusses how cold weather can influence the risk of heart attacks, other factors that increase this risk, and preventive measures individuals can take.

A large 2017 study in Sweden investigating the link between different weather conditions and heart attacks found that they were more common on colder days. During colder weather, the heart needs to work harder to keep a person warm. As such, cold weather can affect the heart and cause:
- a higher heart rate
- an increase in blood pressure
- a higher oxygen demand
- the blood to thicken, which can lead to blood clotting
People with cardiovascular diseases may experience more adverse effects due to cold weather,
It is important to be able to recognize the signs of a heart attack. If a person experiences one, the sooner they get help, the
It is important to seek immediate medical attention if a person thinks they may be experiencing heart attack symptoms. If an individual has the training to use CPR or a defibrillator, they could provide help until emergency medical personnel arrive.
The risk of having a heart attack is higher with a combination of cold weather exposure and a sudden burst of exercise. As such, it is advisable for people to avoid sudden exertion in snowy weather, including shoveling snow or going for a walk through heavy, wet snow.
Risk factors for heart attacks and heart disease can include the
- high blood pressure
- high blood cholesterol
- smoking
- age
- family history
- diabetes
- obesity
- lack of regular exercise
- high alcohol consumption
- consuming a diet high in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol
However, some risk factors may have greater influences on how cold weather affects the condition that the heart is in than others. For example, a
There are steps to reduce a person’s chances of having a heart attack during cold spells. To
A person can
- wearing plenty of layers of clothing and a warm hat to maintain body temperature
- staying out of the wind and avoiding damp areas
- avoiding or limiting consuming alcoholic beverages when spending time in cold conditions, as they can create a false sense of being warm
- taking regular breaks from physical activity and avoiding overworking the body
- going indoors regularly to warm up if spending long periods outdoors
Consuming hot meals and warm drinks are a suitable way of warming up when cold. Additionally, it is
Other preventive measures relate to minimizing respiratory infection during winter. Pneumococcal and flu vaccines are suitable prevention measures, as they can help
If a person acquires an infection, they should rest until they have completely recovered before spending time in cold conditions.
A heart attack is a serious health event that usually occurs when a blockage in the blood vessels prevents blood flow to the heart. Cold weather can increase the risk of having one, as low temperatures may put extra strain on the heart.
Other factors can also increase the risk of a heart attack. Some of these, such as vigorous exercise in the cold, can further exacerbate the risk. It is also advisable to dress appropriately, regularly go inside for breaks, and stay warm.
If a person experiences symptoms of a heart attack, an individual should contact emergency services immediately. The sooner someone receives help, the better their chances are of recovery.