寒冷天氣對心臟健康造成的風險高於炎熱天氣
Cold weather poses a greater risk to heart health than heat
儘管熱浪經常佔據新聞頭條，但寒冷天氣對心血管健康的威脅其實更大且更為持續。
While heat waves frequently dominate headlines, cold weather poses a much greater, consistent threat to cardiovascular health.
人體在接觸寒冷時會產生「戰或逃」(ㄓㄢˋㄏㄨㄛˋㄊㄠˊ)的壓力反應。
The body experiences a "fight-or-flight" stress response when exposed to the cold.
為了保存核心體溫，血管會發生收縮，這會升高血壓並迫使心臟更費力地工作。
To preserve core heat, vessels undergo vasoconstriction, which raises blood pressure and forces the heart to work harder.
此外，寒冷會使血液變稠，增加導致心臟病發作或中風的血栓風險。
Additionally, cold can thicken blood, increasing the risk of clots that lead to heart attacks or strokes.
心臟健康的理想環境溫度約為 74°F (23°C)；隨著氣溫下降，心血管風險便會攀升。
An ideal ambient temperature for heart health is around 74°F (23°C); as temperatures drop, cardiovascular risk climbs.
體質較脆弱的個人，特別是患有高血壓等既有疾病者，面臨的風險更高，尤其是在進行鏟雪等劇烈活動時。
Vulnerable individuals, particularly those with pre-existing conditions like hypertension, face higher risks, especially during strenuous activities like shoveling snow.
冬季的行為因素，例如運動量減少或呼吸道感染增加，進一步加劇了這些危險。
Winter behavioral factors, such as reduced exercise or increased respiratory infections, further exacerbate these dangers.
透過意識到這些生理風險並勤勉地管理健康狀況，您可以更安全地度過冬季，並保持心血管系統強健。
By staying aware of these physiological risks and managing health conditions diligently, you can better navigate the winter months safely and keep your cardiovascular system strong.
