As temperatures fall across the UK, TV GP Dr Punam Krishan is urging people to take extra care of their heart health during the colder months. Working with stairlift and home lift company Stannah, she highlights how low temperatures can place added stress on the cardiovascular system, especially for older adults and people with existing heart conditions.
Dr Punam explains: “Cold weather can potentially place a strain on the cardiovascular system. When the body is exposed to low temperatures, blood vessels constrict to preserve core body heat. As such, the heart pumps harder.” This increased workload can raise the risk of heart-related problems, particularly during physical activity in the cold.
Symptoms of cold-related heart stress
- Chest pain or tightness
- Unusual shortness of breath
- Extreme fatigue outdoors
- Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
- Pale or blue-tinted skin
“These signs can mean that the cardiovascular system is under stress,” says Dr Punam. “Older people or people with heart conditions may not detect these symptoms as easily, so it’s important to be vigilant as the weather gets colder.” She advises avoiding strenuous outdoor activity in freezing conditions and seeking medical advice if symptoms occur.
To stay safe, Dr Punam recommends dressing appropriately and maintaining warmth indoors. “Make sure you are wearing warm clothes and layering them to keep warmer air in,” she says. “Keep your extremities covered with gloves, hats, and thick, warm footwear.” She also advises avoiding sudden temperature changes, such as going from a heated home straight into cold air. Keeping windows sealed and maintaining indoor heat are simple but effective steps.
Dr Punam also stresses that good cardiovascular health depends on long-term habits. “Overall, heart health is built on consistent, sustainable habits,” she says. “Do your best to stay active indoors and eat heart-healthy foods which include plenty of fruit and veg, whole grains, oily fish, and unsalted nuts.” A healthy diet supports circulation and reduces strain on the heart.
She adds that proper rest and stress management are equally important. “Maintain a consistent sleep schedule as poor sleep can also impact cardiovascular wellness and try to keep your stress levels down through breathing exercises, mindfulness, and simple rest.” Relaxation practices such as deep breathing or meditation can help regulate blood pressure and reduce tension.
The British Heart Foundation supports these recommendations, noting that cold weather increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes, particularly for those over 65 or with pre-existing conditions. NHS figures show hospital admissions for heart-related issues rise by around 15% during winter, highlighting the need for awareness.
Stannah, a family-owned British company established in the 1860s, partners with health experts like Dr Punam to promote wellbeing for older adults. The company launched its first stairlift in 1975 and has sold more than 700,000 units worldwide. Today, it continues to support independent living through accessible design and innovation.
