How the cold weather could affect those with underlying heart conditions

Australians with underlying heart issues could find themselves in hospital this winter as the colder temperatures take their toll.

While flu warnings have been well publicised, the colder months leave weakened hearts under increased pressure to work.

It has been found that despite our relatively mild winters, the average winter increase in heart failure deaths in Australia is similar to the spike in winter deaths seen in Europe.

Cardiologist Professor Andrew Sindone says heart health needs to be on the radar this winter.

"Everyone has heard the warnings to get the flu vaccination, but heart failure doesn't get as much air-time, despite there being a clear link between colder weather and worsening heart health," he said.

"Australians with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions are at risk of their condition worsening as their heart is under increased pressure when the temperature drops."

He said colder weather can increase blood pressure, which makes it more difficult for the heart to pump blood around the body.

"Older Australians who experience fatigue, breathlessness and swelling in their ankles, legs or stomach need to speak to their doctor. These signs may indicate a deterioration of pre-existing heart failure," Prof Sindone said.

The British Heart Foundation says cold weather makes the heart work harder to keep the body warm, so that heart rate and blood pressure may increase which can cause heart problems especially if you already have a heart issue.

The cold can also cause changes to blood that can increase the risk of developing blood clots which can lead to heart attack or stroke.

Heart failure affects around half a million Australians each year with around 67,000 new cases diagnosed annually.

It's predicted that by 2025, 650,000 Australians will suffer from heart failure.

Anton Schoeman was overweight and had high blood pressure when his heart attack struck just as the temperature cooled.

While his heart is still only operating at around 20 per cent capacity, he says had he known the symptoms of heart failure, he may have been able to take action before his cardiac arrest.