Beware of the ‘Silent Killer’ in Chilly Weather: How to Prevent Cardiovascular Diseases

A day-night temperature difference of more than 10 degrees (50ºF), indicating significant temperature fluctuations
Caution against cardiovascular diseases during the autumn season

 

Cardiovascular Disease, the Second Leading Cause of Death in Korea, Requires Special Attention in Autumn

According to Statistics Korea, the leading cause of death in Korea last year was cancer, followed by heart disease.

Cardiovascular disease, often called a ‘silent killer,’ can suddenly lead to death without significant warning signs. It is often cited as a major cause of sudden death in middle-aged people.

Notably, the number of cardiovascular patients surges during seasons with a temperature difference of more than 10 degrees Celsius (18 degrees Fahrenheit) between day and night. When the weather gets cold, blood vessels contract, leading to a sudden increase in blood pressure, which strains the cardiovascular system. This could lead to insufficient blood supply to the heart muscles or blockage of the vessels.

 

What are the Symptoms of Angina and Myocardial Infarction, the Representative Cardiovascular Diseases?

Problems occur more frequently in the chilly mornings or evenings rather than during the relatively warm daytime.

If you suddenly experience headaches, shortness of breath, a feeling of your heart racing, or chest pain, you should immediately seek medical attention.

Angina, which occurs when the blood supply to the heart muscles is not smooth, is accompanied by a feeling of heaviness and squeezing pain in the center or left side of the chest. It can occur suddenly in the cold or during physical activity.

Myocardial infarction occurs when the heart vessels suddenly become blocked. This, too, is more likely to happen when moving from a warm indoor environment to a colder outdoor one. Exposure to sudden temperature changes can cause blood vessels to contract or blood clots to form, increasing the risk of blockage.

Those with high blood pressure, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, arteriosclerosis, or a family history of these conditions should be cautious during this period to prevent worsening diseases.

 

Healthy Habits that Help Prevent Cardiovascular Diseases

There’s no need to be overly fearful or anxious. Improving your daily lifestyle habits can help prevent these diseases.

The first steps are avoiding behaviors that harm heart health, such as smoking and frequent drinking, and maintaining a healthy weight. Smoking, in particular, is a major cause of vascular contraction and arteriosclerosis, increasing the risk of acute myocardial infarction and sudden cardiac death.

Obesity also triggers inflammation and arrhythmia, negatively affecting the heart. People who are overweight with a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 25 and 29.9 or obese with a BMI of 30 or above are said to have a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases, even at a young age.

Exercise is undoubtedly the key to maintaining heart health and overall wellness.

Exercising promotes heart activity, relaxes the vessels, and facilitates smooth blood circulation. Engaging in appropriate physical activities produces nitric oxide, contributing to a healthier heart. However, it is better to refrain from exercising in the early morning. Exposure to cold wind just after waking up can cause a rapid rise in blood pressure. Over-exertion should also be avoided.

Additionally, taking nutritional supplements known to aid cardiovascular health, such as Omega-3 and Coenzyme Q10, and getting ample sleep can also be beneficial.

Wearing warm clothing and using thermal wear to maintain body temperature also adds to the preventive effect.