Heart health in summer: The heart has to work harder to keep the core body temperature cool, as our body temperature rises due to excessive heat. If proper measures are not taken in summer, people who already have heart problems may suffer heart attack or stroke.
When the temperature rises, the heart must beat faster to keep the body cool. This is especially applicable if you live in an area with scorching heat. Most people tolerate this adjustment well, but people who have heart conditions are at risk of experiencing arrhythmias, heat stroke, dehydration, and heart attacks.
Dr Mohit Tandon, Consultant Non-invasive Cardiologist, Fortis Escorts Hospital, Okhla-New-Delhi spoke to Zee English Digital about ways to protect your heart from the heat.
How does hot weather affect the heart?
When we are exposed to hot weather, our heart, lungs and kidneys have to work harder to maintain normal body temperature. This can have a significant impact on people who are already battling heart disease.
People with heart failure or coronary artery disease may be more likely to develop angina, irregular heartbeat, and heart failure because their heart has to work harder.
According to Kuwaiti research, there is a clear correlation between rising temperatures and heart-related mortality, with most of these deaths occurring between 35 and 43.8 °C. These types of temperatures are typical of an Indian summer.
Through radiating heat and sweating, our body releases heat to regulate body temperature. Both of these processes involve an increase in blood flow to the skin. The heart has to work harder for this to happen, and on hot, humid days, it can pump 2 to 4 times more blood per minute than it does on a cool day.
In addition, many drugs given to heart patients can make the condition worse, such as:
– Beta-blockers, which are recommended to control blood pressure and heart rate, can prevent the heart from beating too fast.
Diuretics, which increase the amount of water in your urine from your body to reduce swelling, can increase your risk of developing an electrolyte imbalance and dehydration.
How to take care of your heart in summer?
1. Don’t go outside unless necessary in hot weather Try to schedule your outdoor trips to avoid the hottest period, usually between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., even if necessary.
2. When outdoors, wear light-colored, sweat-absorbing clothing made of breathable material, such as cotton.
3. Drink enough water to keep your body cool and hydrated.
4. Avoid caffeinated drinks and frequent tea as it leads to diarrhea and thus dehydration
5. You can drink juicy fruits like watermelon, melon, lemonade, sugarcane juice and citrus fruits.
6. Avoid exercising in hot weather; prefer early morning or late evening when it’s cooler
7. Try to keep the indoor temperature in a comfortable zone with the help of air conditioners, coolers or fans with natural ventilation Studies suggest indoor temperature between 25 to 30 degree Celsius as a comfortable temperature for most Indians.
8. Always check weather advisories for conditions of heat waves, high and low temperatures and humidity levels. In extremely humid conditions, dehydration can occur due to increased sweating and lack of cooling effect of evaporation even on short hot days.
important tips
Individuals with heart failure who have been told to limit their water consumption should talk to their doctors to find out how much water and other fluids are allowed as well as their medication dosages. whether any adjustments are necessary.
Diabetics should consult their doctors and dieticians before trying to keep themselves hydrated by consuming fruit juices frequently or eating more fruits than the allowed limit.
Heart patients and anyone with blood pressure problems should avoid flavoring liquids with various salt-rich ingredients as this can increase blood pressure.
– Do not stop taking the medicine or change the dosage without first consulting your doctor.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can enjoy the summer and stay cool.