Cardiovascular disease and hot weather

Hot weather can trigger many conditions such as cramps caused by heat, heatstroke, heat exhaustion. In addition, extreme temperatures increase the risk of heart attacks in people with risk factors for cardiovascular disease.The risk increases if the weather is so warm and wet, a condition that causes people to sweat more and more. People who suffer from cardiovascular disease and use of drugs to decrease the likelihood of a heart attack or medication that removes excess water from the body, to treat congestive heart failure, abnormal heart rhythms and chest pain should stay as long as in cold environments and consume up to 8 glasses of water a day.

Warmth and heart
Our bodies are programmed to maintain a temperature of 37 degrees Celsius for optimum performance. If body temperature increases even degree, it will try to cool by sweating and dilation of blood vessels. Evaporative sweat cools the body as a result of enlargement of blood vessels, the heart beats faster and blood pressure drops.
Rapid heartbeat and low blood pressure can cause problems for people with heart disease. People who suffer from cardiovascular disease are more susceptible to extreme temperatures because of their effects on their hearts. People diagnosed with heart failure heart is unable to pump enough to keep low body temperature and blood pressure high enough. As a result, the body can overheat excessively, and the result can be fatal.
During excessive heat, medicines used by many of those suffering from heart disease can cause side effects. In hot environments, diuretics may actually lead to dehydration. However, this category of patients should consume liquids carefully, as recommended by the doctor, because they could add significant stress on the heart and cardiovascular system.
Beta-blockers are prescribed to prevent heart beating fast. They can limit the body’s ability to cool, when average temperatures are high.

Precautions
In general, people with cardiovascular disease should follow the same rules as those healthy:

• stay inside at lower temperatures for most of the day
• inside where air conditioning is not, try to find a place where you can get it
• wear loose clothing in bright colors
• yourself hydrated and avoid caffeine and alcohol
• not remain alone.

Symptoms of heatrelated diseases
Excessive heat can cause exhaustion, especially in people who make efforts and work outdoors. Symptoms of diseases triggered by warm weather are:

• dizziness or fainting
• excessive sweating
• muscle cramps
• cold or clammy skin
• Headache
• rapid heartbeat
• nausea.

If you have these symptoms, avoid heat, drink water or sports drinks and seek immediate emergency medical assistance. Untreated, heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke or sunstroke is an emergency. Hyperthermic shock signs are:

• rapid heartbeat
• confusion or delirium
• hot or dry skin
• fever over 38 degrees
• severe headache
• seizures or muscle spasms
• death.