As the temperature climbs, your body has to work harder to keep you cool. One of the ways it does that is by making your heart beat faster and widening your blood vessels. That’s a normal response, but if you already have a heart condition, it can put extra stress on your cardiovascular system.
At Prime Heart & Vascular, we see a lot of patients each summer who don’t realize how much heat can affect their heart. Whether you’re living with high blood pressure, heart failure, or have had a heart attack or stroke in the past, it’s important to take a few extra precautions during the hottest months of the year.
How Heat Affects the Heart
When you’re out in the heat, your body loses fluids through sweat, which can lead to dehydration. Dehydration makes your heart work harder and can cause blood pressure to drop too low. You might feel dizzy, tired, or even faint.
On top of that, if you’re taking certain medications like beta-blockers or water pills (diuretics), your body may have a harder time keeping its temperature steady or holding on to fluids. That makes it even more important to stay cool and drink enough water.
Pay Attention to These Symptoms
It’s always important to listen to your body, especially in hot weather. If you feel lightheaded, weak, or overly tired, it may be a sign your heart is under stress. Some people feel short of breath or notice swelling in their legs or ankles. Others may feel their heart racing or skipping beats. Nausea and confusion can also be signs that something’s wrong.
If you feel any of these symptoms, find a cool place to rest and drink water. And if the symptoms don’t go away, or they get worse, don’t hesitate to call your doctor or go to the emergency room. It’s always better to be safe.
Who Needs to Be Extra Careful?
If you’ve been diagnosed with a heart condition—like heart failure, high blood pressure, or coronary artery disease—you’re at higher risk when it’s hot outside. People with diabetes are also more sensitive to heat. And as we age, our bodies don’t adjust to changes in temperature as well as they used to, which makes older adults more vulnerable to heat-related heart problems.
7 Smart Habits for Heart Safety in the Heat
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Hydrate, drink water throughout the day, even if you’re not thirsty.
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Avoid peak heat, stay indoors or in the shade between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
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Dress cool, wear lightweight, breathable clothes and a hat when outside.
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Time your walks wisely, try walking early in the morning or in the evening when it’s cooler.
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Limit salty foods, they can lead to fluid retention and higher blood pressure.
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Review your medications, some heart medicines can affect how your body handles the sun and heat, so ask your doctor if any changes are needed.
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Listen to your body, take breaks, rest when needed, and don’t push yourself too hard in the heat.
When to Reach Out
If you’re feeling unsure about how the heat is affecting your health, or you’ve noticed changes like swelling, dizziness, or shortness of breath, give us a call. At Prime Heart & Vascular, we’re here to answer your questions and make sure your heart stays healthy through every season.
We have convenient locations across Plano, and we’re happy to help you stay heart-strong all summer long.
