Does Cold Weather Raise Heart Rate?
Know all about how and what cold weather affects the heart rate. Learn about the symptoms and tips to manage your heart rate in cold weather.
Written by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula
Reviewed by Dr. Siri Nallapu MBBS
Last updated on 29th Jul, 2025
Cold weather can indeed affect your heart rate, and understanding how this happens is important for maintaining good heart health, especially during winter months. If you've ever noticed your heart beating faster when stepping out into the cold, you're not alone. Let’s explore why this happens, who might be more affected, and how you can protect your heart in chilly weather.
How Cold Weather Affects Your Heart Rate?
When exposed to cold temperatures, your body works harder to maintain its normal temperature. Here’s what happens:
Blood Vessels Constrict
Cold causes your blood vessels to narrow (vasoconstriction), which increases blood pressure. Your heart has to pump harder to circulate blood, leading to a higher heart rate.
Increased Adrenaline
Your body releases stress hormones like adrenaline to generate heat, which can also make your heart beat faster.
Physical Exertion
Shivering, walking on icy paths, or performing winter activities (like shovelling snow) can further strain your heart.
For most healthy individuals, this temporary increase in heart rate isn’t harmful. However, for people with existing heart conditions, cold weather can pose serious risks.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
Certain groups should be extra cautious in cold weather:
- People with heart disease, like coronary artery disease or heart failure
- Those with high blood pressure
- Older adults, as their bodies may struggle more with temperature regulation
- Individuals with a history of arrhythmias
Consult Top cardiologists for Personalised Health Advice
Symptoms to Watch For
If you experience any of the following in cold weather, it could indicate that your heart is under stress:
- Unusually fast or irregular heartbeat
- Chest pain or tightness
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Excessive fatigue
- If these symptoms persist, seek medical attention immediately.
Tips to Protect Your Heart in Cold Weather
Here are some simple yet effective ways to keep your heart safe when temperatures drop:
1. Dress Warmly
- Layer your clothing to trap body heat.
- Wear a hat, scarf, and gloves to prevent heat loss.
2. Avoid Overexertion
Shovelling snow or intense outdoor workouts can strain your heart. Take frequent breaks and avoid sudden heavy exertion.
3. Stay Hydrated
Cold weather can reduce thirst, but dehydration thickens blood, making the heart work harder. Drink warm fluids like herbal tea or water.
4. Limit Alcohol & Caffeine
Both can increase heart rate and blood pressure, adding extra stress in cold weather.
5. Warm Up Gradually
If exercising outdoors, start slowly to let your body adjust.
6. Monitor Your Heart Health
If you have a heart condition, check your blood pressure regularly and follow your doctor’s advice.
When to See a Doctor?
If you notice persistent changes in your heart rate, chest discomfort, or unusual fatigue in cold weather, consult a doctor. Early evaluation can prevent complications.
Final Thoughts
Cold weather does raise heart rate temporarily for most people, but those with heart conditions should take extra precautions. By staying warm, avoiding sudden exertion, and monitoring symptoms, you can keep your heart healthy all winter long.
Consult Top cardiologists for Personalised Health Advice
Consult Top cardiologists for Personalised Health Advice
Dr. Chandra Prakash Thakur
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Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee
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Consult Top cardiologists for Personalised Health Advice
Dr. Chandra Prakash Thakur
Cardiologist
5 Years • MBBS, MD ( Medicine), DM ( Cardiology)
Guwahati
Apollo Hospitals G S Road, Guwahati
Dr. Bhethala Sharan Prakash
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS MD
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Sumanta Chatterjee
Cardiologist
12 Years • MBBS,MD General Medicine,DM Cardiology
Kolkata
HealthYou Speciality Clinic & Diagnostics., Kolkata
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Praveen Kumar
Cardiologist
25 Years • MBBS, MD (Medicine), DM (Cardiology)
Ghaziabad
Navaanya wellness, Ghaziabad
Dr. Anand Ravi
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
