Too Hot for Hearts to Handle

The films Dog Day Afternoon, A Time to Kill, A Streetcar Named Desire and Rear Window all have something in common—the hot weather conditions.

However, there are bigger concerns than being irritable during an August heat wave. Warm weather conditions also can negatively affect your heart health, especially if you’re 65 or older or have a pre-existing heart condition.

In fact, heat-related deaths are on the rise. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, heat-related deaths reached new highs in 2021 and 2022, which were some of the hottest years on record. In addition, they found that since 1999, heat and cardiovascular disease interactions have led to one-fifth of heat-related deaths.

Approximately 1,200 Americans die annually due to extreme heat, and the American Heart Association’s journal, Circulation, predicts that deaths linked to extreme heat and heart disease will more than double over the next 20 years.

So, why are heat and heart problems so closely connected?

When temperatures rise, our bodies work hard to keep us cool by increasing blood flow to the skin. This means our hearts can beat a bit faster, pumping twice the amount of blood each minute compared to cooler days. Some research even indicates that our hearts may beat up to 10 times more per minute for every degree our body temperature rises. The effects can be even worse when humidity levels are above 70%.

This increased heart rate and the strain on the cardiovascular system can be particularly dangerous for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions or those taking medications that affect heart sensitivity.

If you have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure or another chronic condition that affects your heat sensitivity, taking an active role in managing your health on hot days is crucial. Be sure to monitor your numbers, avoid strenuous activity during midday heat and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. By doing so, you can help prevent heat-triggered symptoms and maintain your heart health.

And as summer comes to a close, it’s completely understandable to feel a bit worn out, especially if the heat has taken a toll on your body. Scheduling a heart check-up now is a proactive way to make sure your heart is healthy.

Making an appointment is especially important if you’ve noticed any new or worsening symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, irregular heartbeat, swelling in your legs or ankles, dizziness and unexpected weight gain.

Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and seeking medical help when you need it—regardless of the weather—is important.

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