This year’s brutal summer has proved challenging for people across the country. With temperatures rising to about 50 degrees Celsius in parts of the country, the heatwave has affected everyone, however, it is especially difficult for patients with heart failure. High temperatures put more pressure on the heart to work harder, thus making summer more challenging for heart failure patients.Also read – Hormonal imbalance? Experts share tips for restoring hormonal balance
How does the weather affect the heart?
The human body performs ‘homeostasis’, i.e., self-regulation of temperature. Regardless of external conditions, our body temperature is constantly between 36.1 and 37.2 degrees Celsius. In summer, as the environment around us warms up, our body tries to keep our internal temperature uniform, which puts extra stress on the heart. The heart muscle of a patient with heart failure is stiff and poorly functioning, which is susceptible to deteriorating health conditions. Fluid-volume status is the key to keeping a heart failure patient at bay. Changes in fluid intake, either due to sweating or excessive fluid loss due to excess fluid or salt intake, can be harmful. The effects of certain medications, such as water tablets (diuretics), may also need to be reconsidered during the summer, in consultation with the prescribing physician. Also read – Yoga for Stress Relief and Anxiety: How to do Pigeon Pose, Pulse Cleanse and Supin Twist – Watch Video
Learn how to beat the heat
Heatwave can certainly be a daunting challenge; However, it is not insurmountable. Patients with heart failure may be able to prevent further deterioration of their health by considering these issues: Also read – KK dies of heart attack: Doctor explains why stroke cases are on the rise in adults
- Observe fluid intake: Intense heat dehydrates the body and destroys vital fluids and electrolytes from it. Heart patients should be adequately hydrated, as dehydration can constrict blood vessels and put extra pressure on the heart. At the same time, they should be wary of excessive fluid intake as they already have high levels of water and fluids in the body due to their condition.
- Review their diet: Patients should carefully monitor their salt intake and avoid tobacco, alcohol and caffeinated beverages. Consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables can be increased as it is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. In addition to table salt, baking with herbs, spices, vinegar and fruit juices should be avoided to reduce salt intake. For sodium content, it may be helpful to check the label of the packaged food.
- Avoid Excessive Exercise: While exercise is an important part of staying healthy, one should not overdo it. In addition, exercising in the summer can increase fluid loss due to hot weather. Physical activity is important, but patients should adopt a sustainable exercise regimen after consulting their doctor.
- Wear loose clothing Patients should choose loose, comfortable clothing as they allow air to pass through easily and allow for better movement and flexibility.
- Have a close look at you: If patients live alone, they should be checked regularly by a close friend or neighbor to make sure they are safe and healthy.
- Regular doctor’s visits and adherence to prescribed medications: For patients with heart failure, regular consultation with a doctor is very important. In addition, innovation in heart failure management has been central to recent years, leading to the emergence of new drugs that not only improve / treat symptoms but also prolong life. Thus, it is highly recommended to follow and stick to the medication prescribed by the doctor
- Keep your surroundings cool: Patients should try to keep their surroundings cool and avoid going out in the sun at noon. When sleeping, they should choose the coolest place in their home to do so.
Taking heed of the above steps, leading a stress-free lifestyle, and consulting your doctors on a regular basis can go a long way in keeping you healthy and happy!
(Inputs by Dr. Shraddha Bhure, Medical Director, Bohringer Ingelheim India)
