With temperatures rapidly dropping, special attention should be paid to vulnerable populations such as the elderly, people with chronic diseases, respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

According to the President of the EKPA School of Medicine, Professor of Cardiology, Head of the 3rd University Cardiology Clinic GNNTHA “SOTIRIA” Gerasimos Siassos, the human body shows great adaptability.

But when environmental conditions deviate from the usual for any population, adverse health effects can be observed.

Studies have shown that a drop in temperature increases mortality from all causes, as well as from cardiovascular diseases. Property gains can be as high as 7% for every 10°C drop in temperature.

The effect of cold on the cardiovascular system

Exposure to cold, especially when combined with exercise, increases the work of the heart and can cause symptoms of cardiac ischemia such as chest pain, but even myocardial infarction.

Also, in order to protect itself from the cold and reduce heat loss, the body causes vasospasm, resulting in increased vascular resistance, as well as blood pressure.

This vasospasm, in addition to increasing blood pressure with adverse effects on the heart itself, can also “spread” to the vessels supplying the heart with blood, exacerbating pre-existing vasoconstriction in patients with heart problems.

“There is also evidence of an increase in clotting in the setting of a severe cold, with an expected increase in thrombotic events that can occur either in the form of strokes or myocardial infarctions,” says Mr. Siassos.

What to do to protect yourself from the cold

According to the president of the EKPA School of Medicine, the main means of prevention is to reduce exposure to cold. We must minimize our movements, wear suitable clothing, and when we need to move, it must be done in the best possible conditions, with the shortest travel time and with the least physical strain.

Patients with known cardiac history should not neglect treatment. Special attention should be given to medications taken to treat hypertension, as changes in treatment may be required.

It is also important to take preventive measures to protect against respiratory infections (on the recommendation of our doctors), i.e. Get vaccinated against influenza, pneumococcus, and COVID-19.

In addition, alcohol consumption does not protect against heat loss, but may increase it, exacerbating the hemodynamic effects of cold on the cardiovascular system.

In any case, when symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath or discomfort appear for any reason, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Since the impact of environmental change on the cardiovascular system is significant, proper preparation, communication and protective measures are essential for both healthy and those with cardiovascular disease, concludes Mr. Siassos.

Source: RES-IPE