Abnormal heat is testing even those people who do not have chronic diseases. High temperatures force the heart to work harder, and dehydration and overheating can increase the risk of dangerous conditions. Doctor, public health expert Otto Stoyka told UNN more about how heat affects the cardiovascular system and what can help reduce risks.
Details
According to the doctor, heat creates additional stress on the body, even if a person feels healthy. This primarily affects the work of the heart and blood vessels, as the body is forced to cool down more actively.
Of course, there is an impact, that is, the load on the heart increases. First of all, the heart rate increases because the body spends more effort on thermoregulation. Breathing becomes more frequent, and the body itself works as if the person is performing physical exertion, although in reality they may simply be in the heat. The more trained and enduring a person is, the easier it is for them to tolerate high temperatures
During heat, older people and those with cardiovascular diseases should be especially careful. At the same time, there are certain risks for those who have not previously had heart problems.
In less adapted people or those who already have heart problems, blood pressure may rise and even a hypertensive crisis may occur. It can also be the opposite - a sharp drop in pressure, when a person feels weakness, drowsiness, and may even lose consciousness. Blood thickens during heat, which increases the risk of thrombosis. Atherosclerosis, a sedentary lifestyle, and dehydration contribute most to this
In addition, overheating and dehydration can become trigger mechanisms for extremely dangerous cardiovascular conditions.
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Of course, in heat, the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and heart rhythm disorders increases. Overheating, exhaustion of the body, dehydration, and thrombosis can lead to such complications. A hypertensive crisis itself can also cause a heart attack or stroke. That is why people with cardiovascular diseases need to be especially careful
According to the doctor, to protect yourself from health problems, a proper drinking regimen is important, and you should also monitor your diet and avoid foods that complicate the body's work in the heat.
Food should be lighter, with more fresh vegetables and fruits. You need to drink enough fluids, but without excess, and not overuse salty food. If a person sweats a lot, you can pay attention to special salt solutions or sports drinks, but healthy people should get most of their micronutrients from food. Caloric and heavy food in the heat only increases the load on the body
Also, to endure the heat more easily, you should follow other simple rules. In particular, the doctor advises avoiding being under direct sunlight during the hottest hours, monitoring your well-being, and regularly checking your pulse and blood pressure. It is also important to use air conditioners properly and avoid sudden cooling after being in the heat.
You need to control your pulse and blood pressure, stay in the shade more, take a cool or contrast shower, and avoid going out in the sun during the hottest hours. Alcohol and smoking only worsen the body's adaptation to heat, so it is better to give them up. Clothing should be light, made of natural or modern "breathable" fabrics, and the head must be protected with a hat. If the resting pulse exceeds 110-120 beats per minute, that is already a signal to cool down, rest, and pay attention to your condition