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| Dr Sandeep Chopra |
Ludhiana, January 28, 2026 (News Team): Winter season is often associated with celebrations, family gatherings and festive cheer. However, it is also the season when hospitals across the country witness a noticeable rise in heart attacks and strokes. Doctors have long referred to this seasonal spike as the “Merry Christmas Coronary”, a reminder that the colder months can quietly place extra stress on the heart. Cold weather also changes how the body behaves under strain. Sudden heavy physical activities such as brisk walking in extreme cold or unaccustomed exercise can loosen cholesterol plaques in the arteries, leading to blockages.
Dr Sandeep Chopra, Director, Department of Cardiology, Fortis Hospital Ludhiana, said: “Winter-related heart attacks are rarely caused by one factor alone. Cold-induced narrowing of blood vessels, sudden physical exertion, seasonal infections like influenza and lifestyle excesses together raise cardiac risk. Many patients already carry year-round risk factors, but winter pushes the heart beyond its reserve. The danger lies in ignoring early symptoms or trying to ‘tough it out’. Minutes matter and early medical help can be lifesaving.”
Why winter increases heart attack risk
- Cold temperatures cause blood vessels to constrict, raising the blood pressure
- Blood tends to clot faster in lower temperatures
- Sudden or excessive physical exertion can dislodge cholesterol plaques
- Reduced physical activity slows blood circulation
- Heavy food, excess salt and alcohol strain the heart
- Seasonal infections like influenza increase inflammation
- Emotional, financial and year-end stress further add to the cardiac load
Who is at higher risk during winter
- Smokers and people with high blood pressure, diabetes or high cholesterol
- Overweight individuals or those with low physical activity
- People with existing heart disease or previous heart attack or stroke
- Those experiencing high emotional stress or anxiety
Warning signs of a heart attack
- Chest discomfort lasting more than a few minutes or re-occuring
- Pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the centre of the chest, arm or jaw
- Shortness of breath, with or without chest discomfort
- Cold sweats, nausea, dizziness or lightheadedness
Protecting your heart this winter
- Dress in warm layers and avoid extreme cold, especially in the mornings and at night.
- Cut down on salt and alcohol and stay away from smoking.
- Stay active, but avoid sudden or heavy workouts.
- Keep stress in check, as winter stress can strain the heart.
- Do not ignore chest pain, breathlessness or sudden weakness.
- Stay in touch with your cardiologist and don’t skip routine check-ups.
- If you have heart disease, always carry your prescribed emergency medicines.
