As the temperatures drop across Alberta, many of us brace for frosty mornings, icy driveways, and long days spent in the cold. But did you know winter can also be hard on your heart?
If you’ve ever stepped outside into the freezing air and felt your chest tighten, you’re not alone. For some, this is a harmless reaction to cold air, but for others, it can be a warning sign that their heart is under stress.
At PulseAir Heart & Lung Centre, we help Albertans understand and manage the connection between cold weather and heart health, so you can enjoy the season safely.
Why Cold Weather Can Affect Your Heart
Cold weather causes your body to work harder to stay warm. When the temperature drops:
- Blood vessels constrict, increasing blood pressure.
- The heart pumps faster and harder to keep your body’s core temperature stable.
- Cold air can irritate the lungs, especially if you have asthma or COPD, forcing your heart and lungs to work together under added strain.
For most healthy people, these changes aren’t dangerous. But for those with heart disease, high blood pressure, or respiratory conditions, the extra effort can trigger chest pain, shortness of breath, or even cardiac events.
Related: Healthy Workplace Month: 7 Tips to Reduce Stress for Your Heart Health
When Chest Pain Is More Than “Just the Cold”
Not every twinge of chest discomfort is serious, but it’s important to know when to take it seriously.
You should seek medical attention immediately if you experience:
- Tightness, heaviness, or pressure in your chest during cold exposure
- Pain that spreads to your jaw, arm, neck, or back
- Shortness of breath, dizziness, or sudden fatigue
- Chest discomfort that occurs while shovelling snow or exercising in the cold
- Persistent chest pain that doesn’t improve with rest or warming up
These symptoms can indicate angina, a reduced blood flow to the heart, or even a heart attack. It’s always better to err on the side of caution, especially during Alberta’s deep freezes, when emergency response times can be delayed by weather.
Who’s Most at Risk in Alberta
Cold weather affects everyone differently, but some Albertans are more vulnerable to heart complications in the winter:
- Adults over 50 years old
- People with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart disease
- Individuals with atrial fibrillation (AFib) or other irregular heart rhythms
- Smokers or those exposed to secondhand smoke
- People living with COPD, asthma, or other chronic lung conditions
- Anyone with poor physical conditioning or limited mobility
Even healthy adults can experience chest discomfort if they suddenly overexert themselves, for example, by shovelling heavy snow without warming up first.
Read More: Understanding Your Blood Pressure Readings
How to Protect Your Heart (and Lungs) in Cold Weather
Cold weather doesn’t mean you need to stay inside all winter, but taking a few precautions can make a big difference.
1. Dress in Layers
Keep your body and chest warm. Cover your mouth and nose with a scarf to warm the air before you breathe it in.
2. Warm Up Before Activity
Take 5–10 minutes to gently move your body before heading outdoors. Sudden exertion, like shovelling snow right away, can strain the heart.
3. Know Your Limits
If you feel short of breath or dizzy, stop immediately. Don’t ignore pain or try to “push through” it.
4. Stay Active Indoors
Cold air and slippery sidewalks can make outdoor exercise difficult, so bring your workouts inside. Try stretching, yoga, or light indoor cardio to keep your heart healthy.
5. Eat Heart-Healthy Meals
Winter comfort foods are often high in sodium and saturated fats. Balance hearty dishes with fresh produce, whole grains, and lean proteins to support cardiovascular health.
6. Manage Your Blood Pressure
Monitor your numbers regularly and take medications as prescribed. Cold weather can cause spikes in blood pressure for some people.
7. Check Your Indoor Air Quality
Dry, heated air can irritate the lungs. Use a humidifier and replace furnace filters regularly to maintain healthy air.
Read More: 5 Ways to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality
When to See a Heart or Lung Specialist
If you’ve noticed chest pain in cold weather, especially when combined with shortness of breath or fatigue, it’s important to get checked. A specialist can help determine whether your symptoms are caused by heart strain, a respiratory issue, or both.
At PulseAir Heart & Lung Centre in Edmonton, our team provides:
- Comprehensive cardiac and respiratory assessments
- Heart rhythm and oxygen monitoring
- Pulmonary function testing (PFTs)
- Personalised care plans for patients across Alberta
We understand how Alberta’s cold climate can affect your heart and lungs, and we’re here to help you breathe easier and live healthier this winter.
Book a Cardiology Consultation with PulseAir Today
Keep Your Heart Safe This Winter
Chest pain in cold weather shouldn’t be ignored. Whether it’s from shovelling snow, rushing to your car in freezing air, or simply standing outside too long, your body might be sending you a signal.
If you experience chest discomfort, even occasionally, reach out to your healthcare provider or book a consultation with PulseAir Heart & Lung Centre. Early testing and care can help you prevent complications — and enjoy Alberta’s winter with peace of mind.
Learn More About Our Cardiology Services