Extreme summer heat can pose a heavy burden on both the body and mind, experts warn. The soaring temperatures can have serious impacts on the heart, especially for those with cardiovascular diseases. Recognizing the warning signs from the body can help prevent cardiovascular diseases caused by high temperatures.
Dr. Adedapo Iluyomade, a cardiologist at the Miami Cardiac and Vascular Institute affiliated with Baptist Health South Florida in South Florida, emphasized that hot weather can lead to increased strain on the heart. When our bodies heat up, the blood vessels near the skin expand to dissipate heat, causing the heart to work harder and beat faster to maintain stable blood pressure, thereby increasing the demand for oxygen.
In addition to the additional pressure on the heart, high temperatures can also result in dehydration or thickening of the blood, which may trigger various symptoms or cardiovascular conditions. A study on over 6000 cases of heat exposure found that even a “slight rise” in core body temperature can increase heart rate by nearly 30 beats per minute.
According to Dr. Iluyomade, for every 1-degree Celsius increase in temperature, the risk of cardiovascular mortality increases by about 2%. Heatwaves significantly raise the risk of heart attacks, heart failure, and arrhythmias. This could potentially lead to “silent heart attacks” in individuals with coronary artery disease.
Some medications for cardiovascular conditions may exacerbate the body’s response to high temperatures, according to the American Heart Association (AHA). For individuals with conditions like coronary artery disease, heart failure, high blood pressure, or arrhythmias, Dr. Iluyomade recommends taking precautionary measures during the summer. It is advised to avoid going out during the hottest times of the day, stay well-hydrated, and seek shade or cooler areas to prevent heart-related issues.
Even for those without underlying heart conditions, paying attention to warning signs associated with high temperatures is crucial. Symptoms like chest tightness, worsening shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, leg swelling, or dizziness should not be ignored.
Other danger signs include feeling unusually fatigued, experiencing strong heartbeats even at rest, dizziness, nausea, or confusion. The AHA also lists additional symptoms of heatstroke, such as a body temperature of 103 degrees Fahrenheit (39.4 degrees Celsius) or higher, along with hot, flushed, dry, or moist skin.
Dr. Iluyomade concludes by emphasizing the importance of staying hydrated, resting in air-conditioned or shaded areas, avoiding strenuous activities at midday, wearing lightweight and breathable clothing to help ease the burden on your heart and withstand the summer heat.