PRINCE KUMAR
Ranchi, May 23: The extreme heat of summer might be harmful to your heart. Dehydration and salt loss put people with a history of heart failure at an even higher risk of health problems. Heart failure occurs when the heart muscle is unable to adequately pump blood, causing fluid to accumulate in the lungs and perhaps causing shortness of breath. People with a history of heart failure should follow a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, limiting salt intake, and controlling stress, among other things.
“Aside from the increased heat, other factors that may have an impact on heart health include not eating a salt-restricted diet, excessive alcohol consumption, poor blood circulation, and the use of certain medications such as sedatives or diuretics in conjunction with blood pressure medications,” says Dr Vineet Mahajan of Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences.
Dr Mahajan claims that when the temperature and humidity are excessive in the summer, increased blood flow to the skin occurs, causing the heart to beat quicker and the blood to circulate twice as quickly each minute.
“Intense heat and frequent sweating deplete the body’s fluid content, producing dehydration and straining the heart. This, in combination with blood pressure drugs, can cause a considerable drop in blood pressure, which, coupled with a high heart rate, are key risk factors for individuals who are prone to or have a history of cardiac difficulties,” says the cardiologist.
Dr Mahajan suggests a few tips for heart patients to stay healthy during intense heat:
- In hot weather, avoid vigorous physical activity, especially on balconies and terraces. Exercise inside.
- Caffeine and alcohol should be avoided whenever possible.
- Light-colored, breathable clothes are recommended (preferably cotton).
- Using air conditioning or fans, ensure proper airflow and maintain a cool environment.
- Check your blood pressure frequently.
- If your blood pressure is high or low, see your doctor.
- Depending on the symptoms, blood sodium and potassium levels should be monitored regularly.
- In older patients with a history of heart failure and high blood pressure, medication dosages may need to be lowered.
- After speaking with their doctor, patients with a history of heart failure who consume very little water and salt should increase their water intake (by 250-500ml/day) and adjust their salt intake.
