Winter Season Leads to Increase in Heart Attacks 

When people think of winter-related health problems, they usually think of colds, sore throats and the flu. However, cardiologists warn people might want to think of another malady as the weather outside gets frightful – heart attacks.

According to research by the American College of Cardiology, winter produces 53 percent more heart attacks than any other season with a 33 percent increase in heart-related deaths.

"There clearly is a link between winter weather and heart disease," says Andrew Kates, MD, Washington University cardiologist at Barnes-Jewish Hospital.

While an obvious culprit could be stress placed on the heart by shoveling snow that doesn''t explain why snow-barren locales like Florida and California show the same trends. The probable reasons include:

Inactivity – A 1997 Centers for Disease Control study found that as temperatures drop and the sun sets early, Americans become less active regardless of where they live.

Depression – Holiday stress and shorter days can lead to depression. A recent study at Washington University School of Medicine found a direct tie between depression and heart disease.

Poor dietary habits – Holiday foods are in abundance at the office and at home. While cookies and pies are tasty, the extra snacks are high in calories and fat.

Colder weather – Cold weather not only constricts coronary arteries, but increases blood catecholamine levels that can increase blood pressure and heart attack risk.

"People with heart disease should avoid outside activity during the winter as well as take beta-blockers or aspirin as prescribed by their doctor," says Dr. Kates.

To protect yourself from heart attacks during the winter, Dr. Kates suggests regular indoor exercise, healthy eating, stress management, and warm clothes when venturing outdoors.

For a referral to a Washington University cardiologist at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, call 314-TOP-DOCS (314-867-3627) or toll free 1-866-867-3627.