Infarction, commonly known as heart attack, is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. It occurs when the blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, resulting in damage or death of heart muscle cells.

While several factors contribute to the risk of heart attack, temperature is an often-overlooked factor that can significantly increase the risk of infarction.

What is Infarction?

Infarction is a medical condition that occurs when the blood supply to a particular part of the body is disrupted, resulting in tissue damage or death. When a similar event occurs in the heart, it is called a heart attack or myocardial infarction.

The most common cause of heart attack is a build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries that supply blood to the heart, which can result in the formation of a blood clot that blocks the flow of blood to the heart.

What are the Causes of Infarction?

Several factors can increase the risk of infarction, including:.

High blood pressure
Smoking
High cholesterol levels
Diabetes
Obesity
Lack of exercise
Family history of heart disease

While these factors are well-known and widely acknowledged as risk factors for heart disease, recent research has shown that temperature can also play a crucial role in increasing the risk of infarction.

How Temperature Affects the Risk of Infarction?

Several studies have shown that extreme temperature conditions, both heat and cold, can increase the risk of heart attack.

A meta-analysis study that included 12 studies and over 72,000 cases of heart attack found that the risk of heart attack increased by 5% for every 1°C increase in temperature above the minimum threshold temperature for each region.

In addition to high temperatures, cold temperatures can also increase the risk of heart attack. One study found that the risk of heart attack increased by 7% for every 1°C decrease in temperature below 5°C.

The study also found that the highest risk occurred within the first two weeks of exposure to cold temperatures.

Why Does Temperature Affect Infarction Risk?

The exact mechanisms by which temperature affects the risk of infarction are not yet fully understood. However, several theories suggest that temperature can affect the cardiovascular system in several ways:.

Temperature affects blood pressure: Changes in temperature can cause blood vessels to constrict or dilate, affecting blood flow and blood pressure. High blood pressure is a well-known risk factor for heart disease.
Temperature affects blood clotting: Changes in temperature can also affect the body’s ability to clot blood, which can increase the risk of heart attack.
Temperature affects heart rate: Changes in temperature can also affect the heart’s rate and rhythm, which can increase the risk of arrhythmias and heart attack.

What are the Dangerous Temperature Thresholds for Infarction?

The exact temperature thresholds that can increase the risk of infarction vary depending on several factors, including age, gender, health status, geographical location, and individual susceptibility.

However, some thresholds have been established based on current research:.

High temperature threshold: According to the American Heart Association, temperatures above 90°F (32°C) can increase the risk of heart attack, especially in people with pre-existing heart disease or other risk factors.
Cold temperature threshold: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, temperatures below 40°F (4°C) can increase the risk of heart attack, especially in older adults and people with pre-existing heart disease.

How to Protect Yourself from Infarction due to Temperature?

While temperature is sometimes beyond anyone’s control, several interventions can help reduce the risk of heart attack during extreme temperature conditions:.

Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, can prevent dehydration and help regulate body temperature.
Dress appropriately: Wear lightweight, breathable, and light-colored clothing during hot temperatures and warm, layered clothing during cold temperatures.
Avoid extreme temperatures: Stay indoors during extreme temperature conditions or seek air-conditioned or heated environments.
Avoid exertion: Exertion during extreme temperature conditions can increase the risk of heart attack. Avoid strenuous activities or schedule them during cooler times of the day.
Know the warning signs of heart attack: Symptoms of heart attack, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and nausea, can occur during extreme temperature conditions. Knowing the warning signs and seeking immediate medical attention can save lives.

Conclusion

Temperature is a significant factor in increasing the risk of heart attack. Extreme temperature conditions, both hot and cold, can affect the cardiovascular system in several ways, leading to an increased risk of infarction.

Recognizing the warning signs, taking preventive measures, and seeking immediate medical attention during extreme temperature conditions can help prevent the occurrence of heart attacks.