Heatwave alert has been issued for several states as the country braces for extreme heat in the coming months. The scorching heat not only makes you sweat more, but it also burdens our body’s essential functions, creating a significant risk of health complications due to heat exhaustion and dehydration. Heatwaves can also affect the way our hearts work. To regulate our body temperature, our heart has to work extra hard to ensure blood flow. This can put pressure on vital organs and lack of proper heart care can make a person vulnerable to events like heart attacks.
Drinking enough fluids in hot weather can help the body’s normal functioning. It is also important to avoid sunlight, wear cotton clothes and stay in air conditioning during peak hours to reduce the effects of heat stroke. (Also Read | Heatwave alert in India: How to protect yourself from extreme heat; follow preventive tips)
“As the world grapples with the increasing frequency of extreme weather events due to climate change, understanding the connection between heatwaves and heart attacks becomes paramount. Heatwaves are not only a direct threat to human health through heat-related illnesses. poses a risk, but also aggravates existing conditions. Cardiovascular diseases,” says Dr Abhijeet Khadtare, cardiologist, Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune. (Also read: How to beat heatwave and stay healthy 10 Hydrating Fruits
What is the connection between heatwave and heart attack?
“During a heatwave, the body’s thermoregulation mechanisms are tested. To cool itself, the body relies on sweating and increased blood flow to the skin. This places a significant burden on the heart, which must be cooled to facilitate Have to pump harder and faster. This process. While individuals with healthy cardiovascular systems can tolerate this stress, those with pre-existing heart conditions are at increased risk, potentially leading to a heart attack. It is,” says Dr. Khadtare.
“The human body is designed to function optimally between specific temperatures in the environment. At extremes of temperature, there will be changes in metabolism that will translate into faulty functioning of various organs of the body. Extremes of temperature have a detrimental effect on the functioning of During extreme heat waves, as seen in the subcontinent in summer, there will be increased sweating, causing fluid loss causing the heart to work extra hard to maintain adequate circulation. This leads to heart attacks, especially In those who already suffer from underlying conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes,” says Dr Shashi K Srivastava, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad.
Signs and symptoms of heart problems during heatwave
Symptoms of heart trouble during heat wave include heavy sweating, weakness, cold and clammy skin, fainting and vomiting. These signs indicate heat exhaustion or heatstroke, both of which require immediate medical attention as they can turn into serious complications like heart attack.
Ways to avoid heat
Heart care during summer includes prioritizing hydration, maintaining electrolyte balance, and avoiding excessive exertion during hot weather. Additionally, individuals with cardiovascular problems should follow their prescribed medications and consult their healthcare providers for personalized recommendations.
“Preventive measures are important during heatwaves, especially for individuals with cardiovascular problems. Staying hydrated is important to counteract dehydration, which can put a strain on the heart. Avoiding direct sunlight, fans or air conditioning during peak hours. Using heat and wearing light clothing can also help reduce the effects of extreme heat,” says Dr Khadtare.
Dr. Srivastava says that people already suffering from heart disease should avoid excessive exertion, keep themselves hydrated regularly and ask their doctor to adjust the dosage of some medicines.
“Patients taking certain medications, such as diuretics, may have a feeling of fatigue and dehydration in the summer. Doses of these medications should be adjusted to account for increased sweating. Heavy workouts or physical activity during intense heat may activate the sympathetic system. Which increases the chances of heart stroke. Exposure to extreme heat can also cause dizziness and fainting. People with heart problems should not exercise too much during extremes, heat and extreme heat and some The dosage of the drugs should be adjusted by the doctor, says the expert.
