Summertime in South Georgia is often synonymous with long days filled with sunshine and outdoor adventures. And while the warm weather invites us to enjoy these activities, it also demands a heightened awareness of our heart health.
How the Heat Impacts Your Heart
According to Archbold cardiologist Dr. Pallavi Luthra, when temperatures and humidity climb, your heart faces additional challenges. This combination causes your body to work harder to maintain a normal internal temperature.
“To keep your internal body temperature stable in these conditions, your body ramps up blood flow to the skin,” says Dr. Luthra. “This process helps dissipate heat through your skin, cooling you down. As part of this cooling mechanism, your body also produces sweat. As sweat evaporates, it further aids in lowering your body temperature. However, this increased demand for blood circulation forces your heart to work harder and pump faster, elevating your heart rate and putting additional stress on your cardiovascular system.”
The high humidity we experience in South Georgia further complicates this process because it can prevent sweat from evaporating quickly.
“Evaporation is a key cooling mechanism for the body,” explained Dr. Luthra. “Without it, you don't lose heat as efficiently, prompting your body to increase blood flow even more, which can lead to an even higher heart rate.”
Dr. Luthra stresses that high temperatures and humidity can be especially dangerous for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions, making them particularly vulnerable to heat-related complications. Here’s why:
- Increased Cardiac Workload: For someone with heart disease or a weakened heart, this added workload can be taxing. Their heart may already be struggling to meet normal demands, and the additional strain can lead to complications such as heart failure or exacerbated symptoms of their existing condition.
- Impaired Cooling Mechanism: High humidity levels interfere with the body’s ability to cool itself through evaporation of sweat. For individuals with heart conditions, their bodies might not only struggle to pump blood more efficiently but also fail to cool down effectively. This inefficient cooling can lead to an increase in body temperature and potentially dangerous heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
- Dehydration Risks: Those with heart conditions are often at increased risk of dehydration, which can be exacerbated in hot conditions. Dehydration thickens the blood, making it harder for the heart to pump. This increases the risk of clot formation and reduces the efficiency of blood circulation. In severe cases, this can further stress the heart and contribute to a heart attack or stroke.
- Medication Factors: Many people with heart conditions take medications that can affect the body’s response to heat. Beta-blockers slow the heart rate and could limit the heart’s ability to pump more vigorously as needed in heat, while diuretics, which help remove fluid from the body, can lead to dehydration if not carefully managed.
Heart Health Tips for Hot Weather
According to Dr. Pallavi, individuals with heart conditions must take extra precautions in hot and humid weather to manage their health risks and avoid heat-related complications. Use the following tips to keep your heart healthy all summer long.
● Stay Hydrated
Your heart works harder in the heat to help cool your body, which can lead to dehydration if you're not careful. Dehydration thickens your blood, making your heart pump harder. Stay hydrated by drinking at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily, and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink up!
● Know the Symptoms
It's important to recognize the warning signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion. If you experience the symptoms listed below, move to a cooler place and hydrate immediately.
- Extreme thirst
- Less frequent urination
- Dark-colored urine
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Rapid heartbeat
● Eat Heart-Smart
Eating light doesn’t just feel better in the summer heat; it’s also better for your heart. Opt for fruits and vegetables that are high in water content, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, watermelon, and strawberries. These are not only heart-healthy options, but they also provide hydration and essential nutrients without burdening your heart.
● Stay Cool
Plan your outdoor activities during the cooler parts of the day—early morning or late evening. If you exercise outdoors, switch to water workouts, like swimming, which keep you cool and take the pressure off your heart and joints.
● Listen to Your Body
The summer heat can make everyday activities more taxing on your heart. Listen to your body. If you’re feeling dizzy or nauseous, or your heart is beating faster than usual, take a break and seek shade. Consider indoor activities, like yoga or stretching, which can be more forgiving on your heart when the temperature rises.
● Protect Your Skin
Protecting your skin from the sun with a high SPF sunscreen prevents skin cancer and helps maintain your overall health. Sunburn can stress your body and, in turn, your heart, so lather up!
● Keep in Touch with Your Healthcare Provider
Regular check-ups aren’t just for when you feel unwell. They can help catch potential health issues before they become serious. This is especially important in the summer when the heat can exacerbate existing heart conditions.
Stay Heart-Smart This Summer
As we enjoy the warmer weather and longer days, we must remember that our heart health should never take a back seat. This summer, take these precautions to ensure your heart health isn’t taking a vacation while you are: prioritize hydration, listen to your body, and take preventative measures to protect your heart. Whether you're planning a vacation or simply enjoying the outdoors near home, being aware of how heat impacts your heart can make a big difference. Don't forget to schedule regular check-ins with your primary healthcare provider to ensure your heart is as ready for summer as you are. By following these tips, you can enjoy a fun and heart-healthy summer season. So grab your water bottle, plan your activities for the cooler parts of the day, and make this summer your healthiest yet!