Heart attacks, also known as infarctions or myocardial infarctions, are one of the leading causes of death worldwide.

The occurrence of heart attacks is not random but is related to various risk factors, including lifestyle choices, medical status, and seasonal fluctuations. Studies have shown that the incidence of hospital admissions for heart attacks varies by season, with a higher rate in winter and a lower rate in summer. But what’s the reason behind this seasonal trend of infarction?.

Winter and heart attacks

Winter is the season with the highest incidence of heart attacks, and this trend is observed across different countries and climates. There are several reasons why winter may increase the risk of heart attacks:.

Cold temperatures

Exposure to cold temperatures can cause the blood vessels to constrict, which increases blood pressure and reduces blood flow to the heart. The heart has to work harder to pump blood, which can lead to strain and damage to the heart muscle.

Additionally, cold temperatures can make the blood more prone to clotting, which increases the risk of a heart attack.

Infections

Winter is also the season for flu and other respiratory infections, which can trigger inflammation and stress on the heart.

Respiratory infections can cause fever, dehydration, and increase the risk of blood clotting, all of which can contribute to heart attack.

Poor air quality

In some regions, winter is also associated with higher levels of air pollution, which can worsen cardiovascular health and increase the risk of heart attack.

Exposure to air pollution can cause inflammation, oxidative stress, and damage to the blood vessels, which can impair blood flow to the heart and increase the likelihood of a heart attack.

Summer and heart attacks

Although summer is generally considered a season of health and vitality, it also has its unique risks for heart attacks. Research has found that the incidence of heart attacks decreases in summer, but the reasons are less clear than for winter.

Dehydration

One possible reason is dehydration, which can be more common in summer due to higher temperatures and increased outdoor activities. Dehydration can cause the blood to thicken, which can increase the risk of clotting and heart attack.

Additionally, low hydration levels can make the heart work harder to pump blood, which can increase the strain on the heart and predispose to heart attack.

Behavioral changes

Another factor that may contribute to the summer dip in heart attacks is people’s behavior. Many people take vacation time during summer, which can reduce stress levels and improve overall health.

Summer activities can promote physical activity and reduce the consumption of unhealthy foods and alcohol, which are known risk factors for heart attack.

Conclusion

The seasonal trend of infarction is a complex phenomenon that involves various factors related to weather, behavior, and health status.

Although winter is the season with the highest incidence of heart attacks, summer also poses its own risks, and awareness and prevention strategies should be implemented throughout the year. By understanding the reasons behind the seasonal trend of infarction, we can take steps to mitigate the risks and improve our heart health.