Warning: Heart Attack Risk Rises in Summer Heat

During the summer months, heat can cause fluctuations in heart rate as the body works to maintain thermal balance. For this reason, not only people with hypertension and heart disease are affected negatively by hot weather, but healthy individuals as well. In extreme heat, blood circulation becomes irregular; consequently, the risk of heart and cardiovascular disease increases. It is possible to protect heart health by taking precautions against summer heat. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Serkan Akdağ from the Cardiology Department at Memorial Dicle Hospital shared important information about heart health during the summer months.

Heart Disease: The Most Common Cause of Death Worldwide

Heart and cardiovascular diseases represent the most critical health threat among chronic diseases. According to World Health Organization data, approximately 18 million people die each year globally from heart disease, while in Turkey this figure reaches 200,000 annually. This number increases with each passing year. In the development of heart diseases and heart attacks, irregular diet, stress, and environmental factors play a significant role, particularly smoking.

Hot and Humid Air Triggers Heart Attacks

One of the major risk factors for heart attacks during summer months is excessive heat and humidity. Hot weather can cause sudden drops or spikes in blood pressure. In patients with heart and cardiovascular disease and elderly individuals, these sudden changes can trigger a heart attack. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can create conditions favoring this situation. For this reason, it is especially important that heart and cardiovascular patients protect themselves from heat and avoid direct exposure to sunlight. These patients should not go outside between 11:00-16:00 when the sun is at its peak; those who must go outside should stay in shaded areas or use an umbrella.

2.5-3.0 Litres of Water Should Be Consumed Daily During Summer

To maintain the body's fluid balance, it is essential to replace fluids lost through excessive sweating. Especially during summer months, 2.5-3.0 litres of water should be consumed daily. Additionally, patients with high blood pressure and heart disease are advised to undergo necessary examinations and follow-ups under the supervision of a cardiologist.

Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Should Be Consumed

Especially during hot summer months, salt restriction that is generally recommended for hypertensive patients should continue, and care should be taken to avoid increased salt intake alongside vegetables. Low-fat or fat-free milk and dairy products, olive oil, sunflower oil, and plant-based liquid oils rich in unsaturated fats such as corn oil should be consumed. Daily consumption of 3-4 portions of various fresh vegetables and fruits will ensure proper functioning of the small and large intestines. However, it should not be forgotten that excessive fruit consumption increases blood sugar and causes weight gain. For this reason, patients with diabetes and obesity should be cautious about this. Dried legumes such as lentils, chickpeas, and dried beans are foods that should definitely be on the table. Foods containing additives and excessive salt, such as salami, sausages, and spicy sausage, should be consumed as little as possible.

Proper Air Conditioning Use

Air conditioners used carelessly during hot summer months can cause many health problems and have negative effects on the heart. When suddenly entering air-conditioned environments, sudden contractions occur in blood vessels, causing negative effects on blood pressure and coronary arteries. To avoid this situation, especially in environments where heart patients are present, the temperature should not fall below 24 degrees, and one should not sit directly in front of the air conditioner outlet.