In several parts of the country, temperatures have already crossed the 45-degree mark. While this scorching heat certainly poses risks of heatstroke, fatigue, and dehydration, did you know that it can also place an abnormal strain on your heart?

Therefore, during periods of intense heat, it is crucial to prioritize heart health alongside taking precautions against heatstroke. Let us learn from Dr. Sanjay Kumar Chugh (Director and Unit Head (Unit-1), Department of Cardiology, Akash Healthcare) how the summer season can prove hazardous to our hearts and what measures should be taken to mitigate these risks.

**Why Does the Risk of Heart Attacks Increase in Summer?**
In extreme heat, the body works continuously to regulate its temperature and keep itself cool. Consequently, the heart is forced to pump blood at a faster rate, placing an abnormal strain upon it. As body temperature rises, blood vessels dilate, and perspiration increases significantly. This leads to a depletion of water and essential minerals within the body.

This resulting dehydration causes the blood to thicken, thereby exerting increased pressure on the heart. If an individual fails to consume adequate amounts of water during this season—or if they have a pre-existing heart condition—their risk of suffering a heart attack rises substantially.

**Who Needs to Exercise Extra Caution?**
While this season can be challenging for everyone, certain groups of people need to exercise particular caution:

The elderly
Patients with high blood pressure
Patients with diabetes
Individuals suffering from heart disease or high cholesterol
Furthermore, factors such as a poor lifestyle, obesity, stress, smoking, and habits like staying awake late into the night are also adversely affecting the heart health of young people during the summer season.

**What Physiological Changes Do Heatwaves Induce?**
**Low Blood Pressure:** Due to the heat, some individuals may experience a sudden and drastic drop in blood pressure; meanwhile, factors such as stress and dehydration can further exacerbate the condition of certain patients. **Electrolyte Imbalance:** Excessive sweating leads to a disruption in the balance of essential electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium. This imbalance can directly affect the heart's rhythm.

**Physical Strain:** Spending prolonged periods in the intense midday sun, venturing outdoors without hydrating, or engaging in strenuous physical labor places immense strain on the body.

**Do Not Ignore These Early Symptoms**
People often dismiss early signs of heat-related distress as mere fatigue; however, such negligence can eventually escalate into a cardiac emergency. Therefore, Dr. Chugh advises that if you experience any of the following symptoms during hot weather, you should become immediately alert:

Chest pain
Sudden and excessive sweating
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Dizziness, restlessness, or a sudden sensation of profound weakness

**How ​​to Take Care of Your Heart?**
**Stay Hydrated:** Drink plenty of water, as well as coconut water, buttermilk, juices, etc., throughout the day to prevent dehydration.

**Avoid the Sun:** Completely refrain from venturing outdoors during the peak heat hours—typically between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM.

**Limit Caffeine and Alcohol:** Avoid excessive consumption of tea, coffee, or alcohol, as these substances further deplete the body's fluid levels.

**Choose the Right Clothing:** If you absolutely must go outdoors during the afternoon, always wear lightweight, cotton clothing.

**Adhere to Medication Schedules:** Heart patients must take their prescribed medications at the exact scheduled times. Do not discontinue any medication on your own initiative without consulting your doctor. Additionally, monitor your blood pressure and blood sugar levels regularly.

**Rest Immediately Upon Fatigue:** If you feel extremely fatigued, stop whatever you are doing immediately, take a rest, and make an effort to cool down your body.

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