4 Tips for a Safe and Healthy Winter
Winter can bring cozy moments, beautiful snow, and crisp air, but the cold weather also calls for some extra care – especially when it comes to staying safe and healthy outdoors. If you have a heart health condition or if you’re planning to be active outside, there are some simple steps you can take to protect yourself. With the right plan, you can enjoy the season while keeping your heart and body warm, safe, and healthy!
How cold weather affects your body
Cold weather makes your heart work harder to keep your body warm. If you have a heart condition, working hard in the cold – like lifting a heavy snow shovel or walking through deep snow – can be extra stressful on your heart. Another risk of cold weather is hypothermia — when the body temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius). [1]
Look at more than just outdoor temperatures
The colder it is, the harder your body must work to stay warm. When deciding whether it’s safe to go outside, don’t just consider the temperature. Factor in other elements that may make the body lose heat, like wind, rain, or snow. For example, wind strips away the warm layer of air around your body. Any dampness can cause the body to lose heat faster than dry conditions.
Tips for staying warm and safe in the cold:
Dress in layers: To keep warm while outdoors, layering is key. Layers trap warm air between your clothing, providing insulation that keeps you warmer than one bulky layer. Maks sure your top layer is weather-resistant to keep you dry. [1]
Wear a hat and gloves: Much of your body heat is lost through your head and ears, so cover them up! Also, keep hands and feet warm, as they lose heat quickly. [1]
Recognize these heart attack warning signs: Chest or upper body discomfort, shortness of breath, and other signs — whether mild or severe — should not be ignored. Pay attention and call 911 if you experience any heart attack warning signs. [1]
Recognize these hypothermia warning signs: Shivering and feeling sleepy, lack of coordination and mental confusion, slowed reactions. If you believe you’re experiencing hypothermia, call 911 and seek warmth right away. [2]
Winter can be a time for joy, relaxation, and a perhaps some outdoor adventure — but a bit of caution goes a long way in helping you stay healthy and strong. Bundle up, be careful, and enjoy the season!
Cold weather and cardiovascular disease. American Heart Association.
How to identify and treat hypothermia and frostbite. American Red Cross.