Who Is At Risk Of Heart Attack In Winter: The cases of heart attacks increase rapidly in winter and the main reason for this is the seasonal changes in the body. According to WHO, heart related diseases are the biggest cause of death worldwide. Heart attack occurs when sufficient blood does not reach the heart muscle. In most cases, this problem occurs due to blockage in the arteries of the heart, due to which the heart muscles gradually start getting damaged.

Why does this happen

Doctors say that heart attack can happen throughout the year, but its risk increases manifold in winter. According to experts, there is a clear increase in heart related emergency cases during the cold season. With falling temperature, physiological changes occur in the body and lifestyle also changes, which puts additional pressure on the heart.

Vasoconstriction is a major cause of heart attacks in winter. In cold weather, the body contracts the blood vessels to maintain heat, due to which blood pressure increases. Due to this, the heart has to pump blood with more force. This situation can prove to be very dangerous for people who already have blockage in their arteries or have a weak heart. Apart from this, blood also becomes thick in cold, due to which the risk of clot formation increases. People also reduce physical activities in cold weather. Not exercising leads to weight gain, weak blood circulation and cholesterol levels can worsen. Along with this, fried and high calorie food also harms heart health in winter.

What do experts say

Meanwhile, respiratory diseases, such as flu or viral infections, can also become a threat to the heart. These increase inflammation in the body, which destabilizes the plaque accumulated in the arteries and increases the risk of heart attack. Senior Dr. Shraddheya Katiyar posted about this on social media, according to him, “The reason for the increase in heart attacks in winter is not just a coincidence. As soon as the body gets cold, the body goes into survival mode to save the heat. Due to this, the blood vessels shrink, the blood pressure increases rapidly and the heart has to work harder. The platelets also start sticking together quickly in the cold, due to which the risk of clot formation further increases.”

Extreme cold and heart attacks are closely linked. This is not theory. It is basic physiology.

Every winter, emergency rooms see the same pattern. Temperatures drop. Heart attacks rise.

Here is why cold weather stresses the heart.

When you step into extreme cold, your body…

— Dr SHRADDHEY KATIYAR (@Wegiveyouhealt1) January 10, 2026

Which symptoms should not be ignored

Some people are most at risk in winter. These include people with pre-existing heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking habit and the elderly. If symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, sudden weakness, excessive sweating or dizziness are seen in this season, then do not ignore them even by mistake. Timely diagnosis and treatment is the strongest way to prevent heart attack.

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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.

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