Health and Fitness : Heart attacks and cold weather

Record low temperatures forecast

Winter is the most common season for heart attacks. Research shows there are up to 53 percent more heart attacks in winter than in summer, and twice as many heart attacks a day in January compared to July.

When the weather is cold, your heart must also work harder to maintain body heat and your arteries tighten, which restricts blood flow and reduces the oxygen supply to your heart. When combined, all of these factors could trigger a heart attack, especially in the elderly or those with existing heart disease.

Hypothermia occurs when your body temperature falls far below normal. Heart failure is the leading cause of death in hypothermia cases, which is why it’s very important to dress appropriately for the weather if you plan to be outdoors in the cold.

If you’re traveling please take special precautions against being in the cold too long without adequate clothing. If you don't have to be out in the extreme cold, don't.