Heart attack: Kanpur reports 131 died in 10 days; expert says risk doubles in winter

At least 131 people died of heart attacks in Kanpur between January 1 and January 10. These figures of so many deaths in one area are perplexing and are becoming a cause of concern. The question that arises is how these many people are succumbing to the disease and what kind of preventive measures can be put in place. Dr Naveen Bhamri, director of the department of cardiology at Max Hospital, New Delhi, says that studies across the world reveal that the risk of heart attack doubles in the winter season. The heart makes double the effort to pump blood in this weather when the arteries of the organ also start to contract temporarily.

Since more pressure is required to flow blood in the contracting arteries, blood pressure increases, which in turn, may cause a heart attack. Also, our food habits change during the winter and people tend to take less exercise, resulting in weight gain. A rise in cholesterol levels due to bad food habits also increases the chances of a heart attack. These are the reasons why the cases of heart attack go up in the winter.

The effect of Covid-19 and cold

Dr Deepak Suman of the cardiology department of Safdarjung Hospital says the cases of heart attack are on the rise due to the combination of the coronavirus and cold. People who have recovered from Covid-19 exhibit signs of blood clotting in the heart, he adds.

According to Dr Deepak, heart diseases are on the rise post-Covid-19 and the falling temperatures are only worsening the situation. This is the reason many people died of heart complications in a span of a few days. Not just Kanpur but other areas are also witnessing a spike in instances of heart diseases. People who already having obesity, have high blood pressure or have diabetes are suffering more heart attacks.

What are preventive measures?

Dr Naveen Bhamri suggests these preventive measures against heart diseases in this weather.

Take care of diet: Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products to keep your heart healthy.

Take regular exercise: Heart specialists advise to take exercise for at least 150 minutes a week. Brisk walking, aerobics and yoga are some of the effective ways to keep your heart healthy and fit.

Keep tabs on your vitals: Get your tests done for blood pressure, cholesterol, sugar level and vitamin D. See if everything is okay or consult the doctor.

Dont take stress: It is seen that stress and anxiety go up in the winter season. It may increase the risk of a heart attack. Try to reduce stress.Pay attention to symptoms: If you notice symptoms like pain on the left or right side of the chest, breathlessness or tiredness, consult a heart specialist immediately.