Cold weather can place extra stress on the body, especially the heart and lungs. During colder months, emergency rooms often see an increase in patients experiencing chest pain, a symptom that should never be ignored.
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Seasonal WellnessConditions
Jan 26, 2026
Chest Pain in Cold Weather: When to Go to the ER
At Ally Medical Emergency Room, our emergency physicians evaluate chest pain quickly to determine the cause and provide immediate care when needed.
“Chest pain is always concerning. It’s important to get evaluated promptly to rule out serious conditions and protect your health,” Dr. Jeremy Kenter, Chief Medical Officer, said.
Why Cold Weather Can Trigger Chest Pain
Cold temperatures can cause blood vessels to constrict, which may increase blood pressure and force the heart to work harder. This added strain can contribute to chest discomfort, particularly in people with underlying heart or lung conditions.
Cold weather may also:
Worsen heart disease symptoms
Trigger asthma or breathing issues
Increase the risk of respiratory infections
Cause muscle strain from shivering or physical exertion
Because chest pain has many possible causes, it’s important not to assume it’s weather-related without medical evaluation.
Common Causes of Chest Pain in Winter
Chest pain during cold weather may be linked to:
Heart-related conditions such as angina or heart attack
Respiratory issues like pneumonia or bronchitis
Asthma flare-ups
Blood clots in the lungs
Muscle strain or inflammation
Acid reflux
Some of these conditions can be life-threatening and require emergency care.
When Chest Pain Requires Emergency Care
You should seek emergency care immediately if chest pain is accompanied by:
Pressure, tightness, or squeezing in the chest
Pain spreading to the arm, neck, jaw, or back
Shortness of breath
Dizziness or fainting
Nausea or vomiting
Cold sweats
Sudden or severe pain
“These symptoms may indicate a serious medical emergency. Early evaluation in the ER can be lifesaving,” Dr. Jeremy Kenter emphasized.
What to Expect at the ER
At Ally Medical ER, patients with chest pain may receive:
Heart monitoring and EKG testing
Blood work to check for heart-related markers
Chest X-rays or CT scans
Oxygen support if needed
Medications to stabilize symptoms
Our team works quickly to identify the cause of chest pain and begin appropriate treatment.
Don’t Ignore Chest Pain in Cold Weather
Even if chest pain improves or seems mild, it should always be evaluated by a medical professional. Prompt emergency care helps rule out serious conditions and provides peace of mind.
If chest pain feels sudden, severe, or unusual, going to the emergency room is the safest choice.
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