When a body is cold, it shivers - meaning muscles are contracting to generate more blood flow and heat, putting a strain on hearts.
Dr. Duncan Brindley, of The Care Group in Indianapolis, says too many people ignore signs of heart distress in December because they don't want to disrupt relatives' holiday plans.
Brindly says, "You'll really be an inconvenience to your family if you keel over (during) the holidays. So, get things checked out ahead of time. Don't put it off. Don't wait until Christmas. Go and seek attention and get yourself taken care of."
According to Brindley, on cold days, people should do warm-up exercises before going outside, dress in layers, take breaks, and avoid dehydration.
Brindley adds that people who have heart disease should not shovel snow.
