FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — People on the East Coast have been experiencing severe winter weather.<\/p>\n
While Central California is not experiencing severe conditions, residents are still experiencing intense cold. The chilling weather makes our bodies work harder to stay warm.<\/p>\n
“With that increased work that our body has to do, it constricts our blood vessels, increasing our blood pressure,” said Dr. Vivian Torio, a Family Medicine Physician with Kaiser Permanente in Fresno.<\/p>\n
That can take a toll on our heart health and create complications for people with underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure.<\/p>\n
“It can lead to increased risk for heart attack and stroke,” said Dr. Torio.<\/p>\n
The American Heart Association reports that people with heart disease may experience chest pain or discomfort in cold weather. Dr. Torio explains that older adults are especially vulnerable in cold conditions.<\/p>\n
“One of the things we don’t think about is dehydration in the cold weather, but especially with the elderly,” said Dr. Torio. “Their thirst center in their brain doesn’t work as well. When it’s cold, we’re not thirsty. Super important to check on the elderly and make sure they’re staying hydrated.”<\/p>\n
Dr. Torio adds to avoid drinks with a lot of sugar. She also stresses limiting alcohol consumption in frigid temperatures.<\/p>\n
“It can kind of trick the body into thinking you’re at a healthy temperature when really your body temperature is lower than you perceive it to be,” said Dr. Torio. “That can increase your risk for hypothermia.”<\/p>\n
Bundling up in warm clothes can also protect our heart health. If you’re working in the cold, doctors say don’t overdo it and listen to your body if something doesn’t feel right.<\/p>\n
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