The link between heart attacks, shortness of breath and winter holidays

The winter holidays can be a hectic time period. It is a time where emotions can run high as families come together and friends meet. It is also a time where emotions can run very low, as some people may have to spend the time alone. In any event, winter holidays can be tough for the mind and the body and such stress can lead to derailment of some of the bodily functions as well.

According to researchers, winter holidays have shown to be a period where incidences of health attacks spike. The Christmas days are the most notable among all. While the mind and the body tend to suffer without our notice, the cold weather could also interfere with the proper functioning of the body. Additionally, scientists point out that the foods that we eat during Christmas can lead to excess sodium accumulation within our body. This would mean that more water would be retained within the circulation. An accumulation of excess fluids within the system would mean that the blood pressure would also rise above what is usual during other periods of time. This can over burden the heart and if the heart is in a compromised state, as in the case of health failure or any other heart defects, it is possible that it can precipitate a heart attack. 

Therefore, it is essential that everyone be vigilant about early signs of heart attack or heart failure during the winter holidays. So, what are these signs and symptoms?

First of all, heart attacks may precipitate in many different ways. Not all heart attacks or heart related problems will manifest as a chest pain. Pain in the left arm, neck, a pain running to the jaw, back of the chest pain…etc are common occurrences before a heart attack. Shortness of breath is another manifestation. Leg swelling, lethargy, heaviness in the chest, excessive sweating, fainting, dizziness, lightheadedness and nausea are some of the other symptoms that can manifest before a heart attack.

In any event, if these signs manifest, the best approach would be to call 9-1-1 if the signs are unusual, if the signs are progressing or if you are in any doubt regarding the origin of these signs. However, one should not be worried unnecessarily as most of these signs can also be related to other benign conditions as well. However, it is in your best interest not to neglect these signs during the holiday season.