Cardiovascular Surgery Specialist Op. Dr. Elnur Mammadlı stated that hot weather triggers sudden heart attack and said, “Although extreme heat is a risk factor for people of all ages, the elderly, pregnant women and people with chronic diseases, especially those with heart problems, are at risk of heat-related death and disease.”
Increasing temperatures with the arrival of summer can trigger the risk of heart attack. Speaking on the subject, Cardiovascular Surgery Specialist Op. Dr. Elnur Mammadlı from Medical Park Antalya Hospital Complex touched on what to pay attention to in hot weather.
“It takes 18 million lives every year”
Stating that heart diseases are the leading cause of death in the world, Cardiovascular Surgery Specialist Op. Dr. Elnur Mammadlı said, “Despite significant public health successes in reducing risk factors such as tobacco use, nutritional interventions and physical activities, cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death worldwide, taking 18 million lives each year. However, evidence has recently been accumulating on the adverse effects of environmental and meteorological factors, including temperature, on cardiovascular diseases.”
“Attention to those with chronic diseases”
Stating that those with chronic diseases should be careful in hot weather, Op. Dr. Mammadlı said, “Heat is worrisome because exposure to heat can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke if internal body temperature is not adequately regulated by thermoregulatory mechanisms. Such thermal irregularities increase the demand placed on the heart to supply the body with enough blood and oxygen, causing cardiac stress. While extreme heat is a risk factor for people of all ages, the elderly, pregnant women and people with chronic diseases, especially those with heart problems, are at risk of heat-related death and illness.”
“The risk of fainting increases in case of dehydration”
Stating that many medications, including over-the-counter medications such as drugs used in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, antihistamines and pain medications, can impair heat tolerance and the body's ability to regulate temperature, Op. Dr. Mammadlı said, “Blood pressure medications lower blood pressure and may be more likely to faint in case of fluid loss caused by heat. Some blood thinners can reduce blood vessel dilation and reduce the body's ability to eliminate heat. Diuretics and heat can promote electrolyte imbalance and fluid loss, which can contribute to the risk of cardiovascular disease. Fluid loss may increase the risk of kidney damage from non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Fluid loss can also increase blood levels of medications, which can cause adverse events,” he said.
“Light and loose clothing should be worn”
Referring to the precautions that can be taken in hot weather, Op. Dr. Mammadlı said, “Poorly controlled blood pressure or heart disease can increase sensitivity to heat and poor air quality. Heat symptoms include intense sweating, muscle cramps, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea and vomiting. In hot weather, we recommend wearing light, loose-fitting clothing that covers arms and legs, a hat with a brim to shade the face, ears and neck, and sunglasses. We recommend the application of broad-spectrum sunscreen. It is worth reminding patients to try to plan their activities for the coolest times of the day or evening if possible. Even spending a few hours in a cool place can reduce the risk of heat-related health problems. Regular fluid and nutrient intake throughout the day is important. If possible, it is useful to limit the consumption of beverages high in sugar, sodium, caffeine and alcohol, as this can lead to dehydration.”
İHA Haber Kodu: 20240812AW265776