News Flash

South Hadley Public Health Department

Heart Health During the Winter Holidays

Prevent

• Include low-sodium foods in your holiday meals. 
  Alcohol and foods high in sodium increase blood pressure and make your heart work harder.

• Take breaks from stressful environments and situations. 
  Step outside or go for a short walk. Find a quiet place to take ten long, deep breaths or drink a glass of water.

• Wear warm clothing when you go outside. 
  Keep your body warm by wearing extra layers, a hat, gloves, and thick socks. Cold weather makes your blood vessels narrow and your heart work harder.

• Set reminders to take your medication. 
  Use alarms and digital calendar notifications to remind yourself to take regular medications - especially blood pressure and heart drugs. If you’re travelling, pack enough medicine for your entire trip in your carry-on bag. 

Recognize the Signs

Heart Attack

• Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of your chest

• Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or back

• Pain or discomfort in the arms or shoulders

• Shortness of breath

• Feeling very tired, lightheaded, or faint

• Nausea or vomiting

Women may experience:

• Anxiety

• Shortness of breath

• Upset stomach

• Nausea and vomiting

• Pain in the shoulder, back or arm

• Unusual tiredness and weakness

Stroke

When you suspect a stroke, act F.A.S.T.:

• Face drooping

• Arm weakness

• Speech difficulty

• Time to call 911

Other symptoms include:

• Difficulty seeing out of one or both eyes 

• Balance or coordination problems

Women may experience: 

• General weakness

• Disorientation and confusion

• Fatigue, nausea or vomiting

Respond

• Do not wait to get care or call for help.

• Call 911.

The South Hadley Public Health Department wishes you a healthy winter holiday season.

Heart Health During the Winter Holidays | 12.22.25 | Hannah Durham