A failed heater in the home brings forth far greater problems than merely being uncomfortable. For those who suffer from coronary-artery disease, cold weather brings forth extremely dangerous health hazards. While nothing substitutes proper medical treatment at an urgent care center or an emergency room, taking a few critical steps when a home heating system fails could preserve your well being.

Cold Weather and the Arteries

Cold weather is never good for the human heart. When the temperature drops to a certain level, the arteries suffer from both constricting and a build-up of fat. Too much of both could lead to a heart attack. Do not assume that you have to be outside in the frigid cold for these troubles to befall your heart. As the temperature drops in a home, the heart and its arteries are going to suffer.  

Reduce the Amount of Physical Activity

Upon noticing the HVAC system has failed, you may start playing around with the heater. After all, what harm is there in troubleshooting? You might also want to run around the house and alert others to the situation playing out.

While you might not look at such actions as a form of physical activity, the truth is you would be physically exerting yourself. Worse yet, the exertion occurs while a cold temperature is overworking the heart. Avoid engaging in any strenuous activity of any kind when the temperature in the home is headed south. Doing so is only going to stress the heart out more and risk cardiac arrest.

Take Health-Preserving Steps

When you have a heart condition and are exposed to cold weather, you cannot act as if the conditions are normal. Recognize the seriousness of the situation and avoid aggravating your heart. The following actions might prove beneficial:

Cover Your Mouth

Wearing a scarf or bringing your sweater over your mouth inside of your house might seem odd, but the low temperature does necessitate making a few changes. While odd from a fashion perspective, covering your mouth definitely helps the heart. Any filter reducing cold air into the lungs allows you breathe better and reduces cardiovascular problems.

Bundle Up and Use a Space Heater

Wrapping yourself up in a blanket and directing a space heater towards yourself is not going to increase the overall temperature inside the home. What it will do is keep your warm enough to potentially forestall a lot of health issues.

Get Out of the House

If the temperature has dropped drastically, seriously think about getting out of the house. Spending a night in a motel may set you back a few dollars, but it also might help you avoid a heart attack.

Last, if chest pains persist, seek emergency medical attention right away. To learn more, contact a company like Modern Emergent Care with any questions or concerns you have.