The weather can significantly impact on cardiovascular health, especially in already unhealthy individuals and in those recovering from cardiac surgery. Low temperatures work the heart harder to keep up body temperature, often leading to complications. Hence, understanding such factors and appropriate measures should help cardiac surgery patients to remain healthy during the colder months.

How cold weather affects the cardiovascular system
Physiological changes occur to the body when subjected to cold temperatures. Blood vessels become constricted, resulting in increased blood pressure along with an increased workload for the heart. In addition, shivering occurring when exposed to cold also causes an extra workload on the heart in maintaining enough warmth in the body. All the above factors may worsen conditions like hypertension and heart incompetence for these patients.

Cold weather also enhances the chances of forming blood clots inside the blood vessels. The serious nature of this condition is exacerbated in a patient undergoing procedures like a valve replacement or bypass surgery as they might be put on blood thinners already after the operation. Cold-induced vasoconstriction together with pre-existing conditions can lead to a plausibility of adverse cardiac events.

Heightened risk of heart attacks
Studies show that the rate of heart attacks during the colder months is rather higher. The combination of increased blood pressure because of constriction, reduced oxygen to the heart, and the effort of shivering leads to the onset of cardiac events. For such patients, this increase in risk leads to the need for heart-wise instructions during the winter.

For cardiac surgery patients in cold:
Dress warmly
Layer up with clothing, a hat, gloves, and insulated footwear to retain body heat. Keeping the extreme parts of the body warm reduces the strain on the heart.

Avoid exposure to cold
Limit of outdoor exposure during extremely cold weather. If necessary, schedule errands for outdoor running while it is warmest during the day.

Monitoring BP:
Conversely, high temperatures may raise blood pressure. Close monitoring will ensure timely intervention should it rise.

Medicines schedule:
Such patients must be on blood thinners, beta-blockers, or other medications. Medication schedules should be strictly followed, especially in winter months.

Identifying warning signs
Patients are to be very careful about the symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and sudden fatigue during cardiac surgery. They might indicate the stress from the cold on the heart and demand immediate attention.

Cold weather has unique challenges against cardiovascular health, especially in cardiac surgical patients. Awareness of the risk involved and measures taken to prevent it give access to heart health in winters. Regular check-ups and adherence to medical advice will prevent complications and ensure smooth recovery.

Dr.Vaibhav Mishra, Senior Director-Cardiac Surgery, Max Hospital, Patparganj.