When temperatures rise, it can have a significant impact on heart health. The increased blood flow to the skin causes the heart to beat faster and put additional stress on its function. It’s important for individuals at high risk of heat-related health issues to be cautious during hot weather.
Dr. BS.CK2 Pham Tran Xuan Hong, Head of Cardiovascular Department 5 at Tam Duc Heart Hospital, offers expert advice on this topic. He emphasizes that people should be aware of warning signs such as dizziness, headache, and rapid heartbeat when their body may be struggling to cope with high temperatures.
Certain medications can also impact the body’s ability to regulate temperature and retain water in hot weather. Insulin used to control diabetes is one example of a medication that may have altered effectiveness when exposed to high temperatures. It’s crucial to store medications properly and be aware of how they may interact with heat.
To stay healthy in hot weather, individuals should prioritize staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water or other hydrating fluids like sports drinks or coconut water. Wearing loose, lightweight clothing can help regulate body temperature and prevent overheating while seeking shade whenever possible is beneficial too. Taking breaks in air-conditioned or cool environments can also help maintain a healthy body temperature and prevent heat-related illnesses.
In conclusion, protecting our health in extreme heat requires being aware of the risks and taking precautions like following expert advice, staying hydrated and monitoring our bodies for signs of heat-related illnesses. By doing so, we can ensure our well-being during these hot summer months.
