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| Dr Manav Wadhera |
Ludhiana, January 15, 2026 (News Team): Winter may feel pleasant, but it can quietly strain the heart. Every year, hospitals see a clear rise in heart-related emergencies during the colder months. Heart attacks and heart failure cases increase in winter. Studies show that heart attacks are almost twice as common in winter as in summer. The risk is higher in older adults and in people who already have heart disease, high blood pressure or diabetes.
Dr Manav Wadhera, Associate Consultant – Non-Invasive Cardiology at Fortis Hospital, Ludhiana, said: “Cold weather puts the heart under silent but sustained pressure. Narrowing of blood vessels, rise in blood pressure, thicker blood and seasonal infections together increase cardiac risk. The danger lies in underestimating symptoms or delaying medical care, especially in people who already have heart conditions.”
When the temperature drops, blood vessels narrow to keep the body warm. This increases blood pressure and makes the heart work harder. Over time, this extra effort can weaken the heart and lead to heart failure. In winter, blood also becomes thicker. This increases the chance of clot formation and raises the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Daily habits also change in winter. People exercise less and eat heavier food. Comfort foods like soups, pickles and processed snacks are high in salt. Too much salt causes the body to retain water, which is harmful for heart patients. Reduced sunlight exposure can also lower vitamin D levels and affect overall health.
Winter is also the peak season for flu and pneumonia. These infections cause fever, breathing difficulty and inflammation. This puts added stress on the heart and can trigger serious cardiac problems.
Why winter raises heart risk
- Cold weather narrows blood vessels and raises blood pressure
- Blood becomes thicker which increases the risk of blood clotting
- Physical activity reduces during winter
- High salt and fatty foods cause fluid retention in the body
- Flu and pneumonia add extra strain on the heart
Warning signs that should not be ignored
- Sudden weight gain
- Swelling of feet or puffiness of the face
- Breathlessness even on mild activity
- Heaviness or a burning feeling in the chest can be mistaken for indigestion
Protecting your heart during winter
- Keep warm by wearing light layers and covering your head and neck
- Stay active with indoor exercise, stretching or yoga
- Eat balanced meals with less salt and fat
- Take heart and blood pressure medicines regularly
- Check blood pressure more often during winter
- Visit your doctor, as medicine doses may need adjustment
Most winter-related heart emergencies are preventable. Stay warm, eat wisely, please remain active and seek timely medical advice so that we can reduce risk and save lives.