Your Heart and the Heat
Managing Heart Disease During Summer Heat
7/12/2024
Daniel Krause, DO, Cardiologist with Aspirus Cardiology
When outdoor
temperatures climb, so do the risks for people with heart disease. For those
affected, the summer heat is not just uncomfortable—it can be dangerous.
However, by understanding how heat impacts heart health and taking proactive
measures, you can effectively manage your condition during the hottest days of
summer.
A recent
study published in American Heart Association’s Circulation journal reveals
a significant link between extreme heat and CVD mortality. For every 1°C rise
in temperature, CVD-related mortality increases by 2.1 percent, with heat waves
causing an approximately 11.7 percent rise in mortality. As summer temperatures
soar, individuals with heart disease face heightened health risks.
"Heat affects
people with heart disease in various ways, primarily through dehydration,"
says Daniel
Krause, DO, a cardiologist with Aspirus Cardiology. He warns that
medications like diuretics, which increase urination, can exacerbate
dehydration symptoms such as lightheadedness and dizziness. Staying hydrated by
drinking plenty of fluids, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, is crucial.
Dr. Krause also
advises caution for those taking medications that may cause fatigue. "Beta
blockers or other medications that slow the heart rate down can worsen symptoms
during extreme heat," he notes.
In hot weather, the
body works harder to regulate temperature, leading to increased heart rate and
blood flow to the skin. This added strain can exacerbate symptoms for those
with heart disease, causing electrolyte imbalances, dehydration, and blood pressure
fluctuations. Dr. Krause recommends close monitoring of these factors and
adjusting medications if necessary.
"If you
experience lightheadedness, dizziness, fatigue, or shortness of breath, seek
shade, drink water, and rest," advises Dr. Krause. Finding a cool,
preferably air-conditioned environment can provide relief from symptoms.
“Listen to your
body,” Dr. Krause emphasizes. "During these hot summer days, it’s not the
time to push yourself. If you're not feeling well, don't be afraid to take a
break. You can always come back to activities later after becoming hydrated and
feeling better.”
Following these
guidelines can help individuals with heart disease effectively manage their
condition during challenging summer conditions.
To schedule an
appointment with Dr. Krause or find an Aspirus provider, visit Aspirus Find a Provider. For
more information about cardiology services offered at Aspirus, visit Aspirus Cardiology.
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