The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert warning for several states in north India, including Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan, as people continue to battle extreme heat. As per reports, the maximum daytime temperatures in these regions are likely to breach 47 degrees Celsius, with possible episodes of heatwaves throughout this week.
Amid such drastic weather conditions, people need to take all measures necessary to protect themselves and their loved ones, particularly children and older people. Moreover, those with pre-existing heart problems should stay vigilant, as extreme temperatures can impact their cardiovascular health.
Also Read: What Does It Mean To Have A Healthy Heart Rate? Expert Answers
How Extreme Heat Can Affect Heart Health
Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Vikrant Khese, Consultant Cardiologist, Apollo Clinic, Kharadi, said that extreme heat can have significant effects on heart health. This is because when the body is exposed to high temperatures, it must work harder to maintain a normal temperature.
In fact, a 2020 study published in the journal Circulation found that when temperatures touch an average daily temperature of 109 degrees Fahrenheit (42 degrees Celsius), the number of deaths from Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) may double or triple.
Some of the ways extreme heat can affect the cardiovascular system include:
Increased heart rate: High temperatures can lead to increased blood flow to the skin, causing the heart to work faster and harder to pump more blood to the skin. This helps with heat dissipation, which refers to a form of heat transfer from its source to surrounding areas.
Dehydration: As we all know, extreme heat can cause more sweating, which can lead to dehydration. According to Dr Khese, dehydration reduces blood volume, making the heart work harder to circulate blood.
Electrolyte imbalance: Heatwaves can also cause the loss of essential electrolytes (like sodium and potassium) through sweat, which can disrupt normal heart function and lead to arrhythmias.
Heat stress: Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, both of which put severe stress on the heart.
Impact On Blood Pressure Levels
Extreme heat can affect blood pressure levels, noted Dr Khese, explaining, "The body's response to heat involves dilating (widening) blood vessels to help release heat. This can initially lower blood pressure. However, the compensatory mechanisms to maintain blood flow and cooling can not only lead to increased heart rate but also vascular strain, in which the body's effort to cool down can strain blood vessels and the heart, potentially leading to hypertension in some individuals, especially those with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.”
Signs To Watch Out For
If you’re someone with a previously existing heart condition or someone at risk of cardiovascular problems, here are some of the signs to watch out for, especially when your region is under extreme heat:
- Noticeably faster heartbeats, especially when at rest
- Feeling faint or unsteady, which can indicate dehydration or low blood pressure.
- Excessive sweating, beyond the usual amount
- Extreme tiredness that doesn't improve with rest
- Difficulty breathing, which may signal that the heart is under stress
- Discomfort or pain in the chest, which requires immediate medical assistance.
How To Keep Your Heart Safe During Extreme Heat
If you’re looking for effective strategies to tackle extreme heat, we’ve got you covered! Here are measures you can take to protect your heart from scorching heat:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine.
- Spend time in air-conditioned places.
- Use fans, cool showers, and damp clothes.
- Limit outdoor activities during the hottest times of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-coloured clothing.
- Keep an eye on your heart rate and blood pressure if you have a cardiovascular condition.
- Use medications as prescribed and consult with your doctor about managing heart health during heatwaves.
- Eat smaller, lighter meals that are easier to digest.
- Take breaks in cool environments if you need to be outside.
Conclusion
Summer is not going away anytime soon. In fact, amid red alert warnings in multiple states, it is evident how the next few days are going to be for most of us. The least we can do is take proper precautions, avoid going out, and stay hydrated. For those with pre-existing heart conditions, avoid outdoor activities at all costs, and even if you indulge in them, take short breaks in cool environments and maintain electrolyte balance through adequate hydration.