Pointing out that the heart works harder in the summer due to fluid and electrolyte loss, which increases heart attacks and other heart diseases, Cardiology Specialist Dr. Utku Şenol recommended drinking water regularly by carrying a water bottle especially on hot days, not walking outdoors at noon, and avoiding alcohol and caffeine.
Stating that there is an increase in cardiovascular diseases with the warming of the weather, Acıbadem Eskişehir Hospital Cardiology Specialist Dr. Utku Şenol said, “High temperatures increase body temperature and this increases the heart rate. The body has to work harder to balance its temperature. This process can be particularly dangerous for people who already have heart disease. Patients diagnosed with high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and arrhythmia may face increased complaints and the emergence of their diseases in these days of increasing heat.” Dr. Şenol said that there is a lot of fluid and electrolyte loss from our body with increased sweating, especially in the summer months; this dehydration causes the blood to become denser and increases the workload of the heart, and that this can lead to heart attack and other heart diseases.
He stated that in hot weather, blood vessels may dilate (vasodilation) and cause a decrease in blood pressure; especially when sufficient fluid is not taken, it can lead to problems such as low blood pressure, fainting and dizziness, as well as sudden rhythm disturbances and life-threatening in patients with electrolyte loss rhythm problems. Referring to the fact that high blood pressure attacks can be seen in very hot weather, especially in elderly patients, Dr. Şenol stated that serious life-threatening problems such as stroke and heart attack may occur due to these attacks.çSpeaking about the serious effects of fluid and electrolyte loss with sweating in patients with heart failure, Dr. Şenol said, “This loss of fluid and electrolytes can lead to complaints such as shortness of breath, weakness and palpitations due to the increase in the workload of the heart. This may cause a sudden increase in heart failure and hospitalization. In addition, these people may develop life risks due to edema suppressants used for heart failure or restrictions in fluid intake.”
“Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated drinks”
Underlining the need to consume plenty of water to prevent dehydration, Dr. Şenol explained the importance of carrying a water bottle and drinking water regularly, especially on hot days. He stated that alcoholic and caffeinated beverages should be avoided because they can increase water loss from the body, especially in patients with heart failure; the dose of diuretics should be rearranged and fluid intake should be determined according to the patient's health status. Emphasizing that patients under blood pressure treatment should be followed up regularly and fluid intake should be regular, Dr. Şenol said, “Heavy physical activities should be avoided in hot weather. It would be more appropriate for those who want to exercise to do light exercises in the early morning or in the cool of the evening. It is necessary to be in cool and air-conditioned environments as much as possible and avoid being outdoors between 10:00 and 16:00 when the sun is strongest. Those who have to be outdoors are recommended to stay in shaded areas.”
“Choose light foods, not heavy and fatty”
Dr. Şenol recommended that light, loose and light-colored clothes should be preferred in hot weather; hats and sunglasses should be used to protect against the harmful effects of the sun. Dr. Şenol explained the importance of avoiding heavy and fatty foods and preferring lighter and easily digestible foods; increasing fruit and vegetable consumption. Stating that especially heart patients should undergo regular medical check-ups during the summer months, Dr. Şenol said:
“Medication doses and treatment plans may need to be adjusted according to hot weather conditions. As a result, increasing temperatures in the summer months can have adverse effects on heart health. Therefore, you can protect your heart health by taking precautions such as adequate fluid intake, staying in cool environments, appropriate clothing and eating habits. Remember, in case of any discomfort, you should consult your doctor as soon as possible.”
İHA Haber Kodu: 20240821AW271429
