Seasonal increases in respiratory infections, such as influenza, which can exacerbate heart problems in people with existing conditions, further increase the need to prioritize heart health during the winter months. The weather makes people over 60 or those with chronic illnesses more vulnerable to health complications. Dr. Shelly (Mital) Mahajan, Lab Director and Clinical Lead at Mahajan Imaging Labs explains the importance of regular heart health checks in winter.
Importance of regular health screening:
1. Early Detection: Regular screening can identify hidden conditions like high blood pressure or pre-diabetes before they develop into serious health problems. Key metrics to consider include BP and fasting glucose levels. An ideal BP level should be less than 120/80 mm Hg. However, during the colder months, blood pressure readings can increase due to vasoconstriction, the narrowing of the blood vessels in response to cold temperatures, which puts extra strain on the heart. A fasting glucose level should ideally be below 100 mg/dL.
2. Risk Assessment: Screening can uncover risk factors such as high LDL cholesterol, elevated triglycerides, or obesity. LDL (‘bad’ cholesterol) should ideally be below 100 mg/dL, while HDL (‘good’ cholesterol) should be above 60 mg/dL.
3. Personalized Prevention Plans: Screening insights guide tailored lifestyle and medical interventions taking into account one’s unique constitution, lifestyle factors and family history. These interventions are designed not only to address specific risk factors, but to promote overall health.
4. Monitoring Progress: For those with existing heart conditions, regular check-ups are essential to ascertain the effectiveness of ongoing treatment. These appointments allow healthcare providers to track key health indicators such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and heart function, to ensure the best possible results and adjust treatment as needed to prevent complications. Gives
Active steps for heart health in winter
Stay active: Find ways to maintain regular physical activity, such as indoor exercise or brisk walking during lighter hours of the day. Regular physical activity and weight management are essential parts of any prevention plan to ensure long-term cardiovascular health.
A heart-healthy diet: Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, whole grains, and seasonal vegetables like spinach and kale, which are known for their cardiovascular health. Omega-3s found in fish, such as salmon and flaxseeds, help reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol. Whole grains, such as oats and quinoa, contribute to better heart health by improving blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Leafy greens like spinach and kale are rich in vitamins, antioxidants and fiber, all of which help maintain healthy blood vessels and heart function.
Stay warm and hydrated: Protect yourself from the cold with proper clothing and avoid sudden exposure to freezing temperatures. Although less obvious in the winter, staying hydrated is important for optimal heart function because dehydration can stress the heart and increase blood pressure. Make sure you drink enough water, even if you’re not thirsty, to keep your body functioning properly during the colder months.
Awareness and proactive care are key to winter wellness for your heart. By making regular checkups a priority and adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, you can protect your cardiovascular health and reduce the risks associated with winter weather. Remember, your heart works tirelessly for you this winter, so make sure you work for it too.