Exposure to high temperatures causes the heart rate to increase and the heart to work harder, thereby causing angina attacks, confusion, and weakness.
Extreme temperatures increase the risk of health problems, especially for people with chronic conditions, including cardiovascular disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the interaction of high temperatures and cardiovascular disease contributes to a quarter of heat-related deaths in this country each year. The higher the temperature, the greater the threat.
A recent study in the journal Circulation evaluated seven-year cardiovascular mortality in Kuwait, where daytime temperatures can reach over 40 degrees Celsius during the hottest months. They found a link between increased temperature and the risk of cardiovascular death, most of which occurred in the temperature range of 35 degrees Celsius to 43 degrees Celsius.
Exposure to high temperatures not only increases the risk of heat exhaustion, but can also place a particular burden on heart health. It puts pressure on the cardiovascular system because dehydration through sweat as well as high temperatures cause the heart rate to increase significantly and the heart to work harder. This can increase the risk of angina attacks, arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), and even heart failure.
For people with heart disease, it's important to follow basic strategies to stay cool.
Watch the weather forecast for particularly hot times and stay indoors on that day. If the temperature in the house is too hot, it is possible to go to medical facilities or anywhere nearest with air conditioning. If you must go outside, evenings and early mornings are usually the coolest times of the day. Rest in the shade whenever possible.
When outside, try to take a sip of water (about 20ml) every 20 minutes, set a timer to remind. If you have heart failure, ask your doctor how much fluid you should drink daily, as fluid can build up and cause edema. If taking diuretics, ask how much to take in hot weather.
Avoid carbonated soft drinks or fruit juices, limit alcohol. Carbonated soft drinks and fruit juices can slow the absorption of water from the digestive system into the bloodstream. Some studies have found that drinking too much alcohol can increase the risk of heat stroke in hot weather.
Sunburn affects the body's ability to cool down and increases dehydration. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and light, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Also, apply plenty of broad-spectrum sunscreen or a UVA/UVB sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to all exposed skin 30 minutes before going outside. It should be reapplied every hour after going outside.
People with heart disease should pay attention when the symptoms are more severe (difficulty breathing, chest pain, palpitations, even fainting ...), need to immediately go to a medical facility for timely treatment.
Dr. Tran Quoc Quy
Department of Cardiovascular Resuscitation, Central Military Hospital 108
