Watch out for the cold!: Just a warning... - British Heart Fou...

British Heart Foundation

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Watch out for the cold!

Kristin1812 profile image
Kristin1812Heart Star
9 Replies

Just a warning, which many will know about but some new to heart disease, might not.

The cold can really get to some angina sufferers. Cover your mouth up and try again.

I’ve tried, a few times, but found no way to beat the recent v cold winds, and have decided to stop trying. No exercise classes, no walks, no gardening. More shopping and films!

It’s restricting, but the instant angina, and too frequent use of spray, has decided it.

Roll on spring!

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Kristin1812 profile image
Kristin1812
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9 Replies
Fredders profile image
Fredders

Good advice Kristen. I actually had an AVR last November and I really struggle with breathlessness when outside in the cold. I’m fine indoors. I think the problem is quite common, but always worrying when you have heart problems.

Wendy

MichaelJH profile image
MichaelJHHeart Star

Agree absolutely! The two worst angina attacks I have had since I started anti-anginal medication were late afternoon/evening when it was near freezing and the people I was with wanted to rush because of the cold. I now stick to the slow lane when walking outside and short distances only!

stevejb1810 profile image
stevejb1810

A timely reminder - wrap up warm people, its going to get really cold this coming week.

Carokai profile image
Carokai

Totally agree.

Had a severe Vasospasm attack yesterday evening, affecting both my heart and my head (headache from hell)

I was on the way to the Cinema all dressed up. So none of my normal, keeping very warm, precautions.

It wasn't actually that cold - 1degree, but the wind chill affect is very severe.

It is getting worse this week, so get those neck buffs out !!

Thanks. I've the same problem. Having my scarf over my mouth when walking helps stop an angina attack coming but steams up my glasses so I can't see where I'm going!

ArtB profile image
ArtB

Hi Kristin1812, I had an MI last March. I don't know if its weight loss or the meds but this Winter I was really feeling the cold at times. So I have actually bought my first set of thermal under clothes, which do the job when i'm outside. I feel a bit more 'grown up' but what the heck if I'm warm!

Also recommend 'Hotties' hand warmers or similar brands, you can put one in each glove or where ever you like, last for hours!

Kristin1812 profile image
Kristin1812Heart Star

Good ideas. Thanks.

SylvieD profile image
SylvieD

I have microvascular angina and I, too, feel the cold badly but, last year, I bought a heated gilet, which I wear on its own when the weather is mild and under a fleece or jacket when it gets really cold. It's easy to use: just switch on the battery at which ever heat level you need.

I won't advertise for any particular name but you can find this kind of garment on websites that sell clothes for motor bikers. These garments are a bit pricey but, in my case, this gilet has made a real difference and allows me to get out in the outdoor safely, which can only be beneficial.

Kristin1812 profile image
Kristin1812Heart Star

Never heard of them, so thank you.

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