As summer heat intensifies across the U.S., the American Heart Association (heart.org) is warning that soaring temperatures don’t just make people uncomfortable — they can put serious strain on the heart and increase the risk of life-threatening complications.
“Heat forces the heart to work harder,” said Chris Shives, Executive Director, American Heart Association – Nebraska. “When your body is trying to cool down, your heart rate increases and your blood vessels expand. For people with heart disease, and even those who are otherwise healthy, that added strain can become dangerous very quickly.”
Why Heat is Hard on Your Heart
When temperatures climb, the body sweats to cool itself which can lead to fluid loss and dehydration. At the same time, the heart must pump more blood to regulate body temperature. Together, these changes can put significant stress on the cardiovascular system.
Protect yourself in extreme heat by avoiding peak heat hours, dressing smart, staying hydrated and taking breaks.
Heat exhaustion symptoms may include headache, cool pale or clammy skin, fast but weak pulse, dizziness or fainting, weakness or muscle cramps, and nausea or vomiting.
Stay Active — But Stay Safe
Physical activity remains essential for heart health, even in the summer months. However, in the heat of summer it may be best to try shifting exercise to early morning or evening hours or move workouts indoors to air-conditioned spaces.
Learn more at heart.org.