Your body's remarkable adaptability can help it build a tolerance to cold weather, but that doesn't mean cold-related risks to your health disappear. Low temperatures and wet or windy conditions can pose problems for your heart, especially if you have heart disease. During the frigid winter months in the Wabash Valley, take cold weather safety steps to protect your health.

During frosty winter weather, your body's primary objective is to stay warm. Your heart plays a key role in maintaining a safe body temperature. By pumping blood to the body, the heart helps the organs stay warm and functioning and reduces the loss of body heat. Working in cold weather, however, puts extra strain on the heart.

In response to your body's need for warmth, blood vessels constrict to aid blood flow to every corner of the body. This comes with a tradeoff, however, because as the blood vessels narrow, the heart beats faster to keep blood flowing. If you have a heart condition, the extra stress of cold weather can lead to chest pain and a greater risk of a heart attack. According to the American Heart Association, the last week of December sees more deadly heart attacks than any other time, although cold weather alone may not explain the increase.

What can you do to help your heart weather cold temperatures? Follow these tips:

• Be heart attack and hypothermia aware. An important part of cold weather safety is being able to recognize the signs of these conditions so you can get help quickly if they occur. Heart attack symptoms include chest, neck, shoulder, arm, or back pain, shortness of breath, and lightheadedness. Hypothermia can cause confusion, slurred speech, poor coordination, and cold hands and feet.
• Follow the plan. Are you working with your primary care provider or heart and vascular specialist to manage a cardiovascular condition, such as high blood pressure? Do your part by taking medications as prescribed and making healthy lifestyle changes.  
• Get moving. Being physically active benefits your heart no matter the temperature or time of year. Just be sure to ask your medical provider if an activity or workout regimen is safe for you before you start.  
• Keep an eye on weather conditions. If the forecast calls for cold and wet or windy weather, consider postponing outdoor activities until conditions improve. You lose body heat faster in wind, rain, and snow. 
• Layer up. Dressing in warm, moisture-wicking, waterproof layers helps keep heat close to your body. Don't wear a cotton layer next to your skin because it will retain moisture. Wet clothing saps body heat faster.
• Make room for rest. Take rest breaks when shoveling snow or performing other outdoor work to ease the strain on your heart.
• Stay hydrated. Drink water throughout the day instead of waiting until you're thirsty.

Exercising indoors is a great option during winter, but if you prefer outdoor activities, take steps to help your heart stay safe while reaping the benefits of physical activity. Be sure to:

• Dress appropriately. Choose athletic wear that will channel sweat away from your body and keep heat in. Don't forget a hat and gloves.
• Share your plans. Let a friend or family member know where you're going and when you expect to be back.
• Warm-up. Before starting an activity, prepare your muscles with a few minutes of walking or stretching.
• Get a grip. Wear shoes with a good grip and avoid icy surfaces.
• Take time to recover. Do some post-workout walking or stretching to help your muscles bounce back.