Jaipur, May 01, 2025.
Heatwave alerts have been issued for many states as the country faces extreme heat. Scorching summer heat not only makes you sweat more, it also burdens our body with several problems. Not many are aware, but heatwave can also affect the way our heart functions.
Our heart works harder in the heat to maintain blood flow, and without proper cardiovascular care, this added strain can increase the risk of heart attacks.
heart attack deaths linked to excessive heat in the U.S. could rise by up to 162% by mid-century. If greenhouse gas emissions remain high, this number could increase by up to 233% between 2036 and 2065.
In summer, when the temperature becomes very high, the body sweats to keep itself cool. In this process of sweating, the skin needs a larger amount of blood, for which blood flow has to be increased, for which the heart has to work a little harder.
- Heat stress forces the heart to work harder to maintain body temperature.
- Dehydration reduces blood volume, increasing strain on the heart.
- Blood vessels dilate in heat, lowering blood pressure and increasing the workload on the heart.
- Higher heart rate occurs as the body tries to cool down, putting more stress on the cardiovascular system.
- Electrolyte imbalances from sweating can disrupt heart function.
- Overexertion during outdoor activities in the heat can trigger a heart attack.
- Pay attention to dehydration: Drink as much water and electrolyte-rich drinks as possible to prevent a deficiency of water and minerals in the body. Indigenous drinks like coconut water, buttermilk, and lemon water are helpful.
- Avoid direct sunlight: Temperatures tend to rise between 11 AM and 4 PM, making it advisable to avoid going out during this time. If it’s absolutely necessary, doctors recommend having lemon water or glucose before stepping out to help stay hydrated and maintain energy levels
- Wear light and loose clothing: Wear light-coloured, cotton, and sweat-absorbing clothes. Keep the body open and cool.
- Monitor medication: Because of extra strain on their systems, heart patients need to be diligent about keeping up with prescriptions.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol: Tea, coffee, and alcohol can lead to dehydration by increasing fluid loss, putting extra strain on the heart. Limiting these beverages helps maintain hydration and reduces cardiovascular stress.
- Watch what you eat: Fried, spicy, and heavy foods are harder to digest and generate more body heat, increasing strain on the heart during summer.
- Exercise, but wisely. Exercising for a healthy body is a must but in summers it is essential to note at what time do you workout. A light walk early in the morning or in the evening is considered better.
- Be cautious when coming out of AC and cooler: Sudden exposure to extreme heat after staying in an air-conditioned room can shock the body and stress the heart. During a heatwave, it’s important to step out gradually and stay hydrated to avoid health risks.
