<< Back

How Summer Heat Affects Your Heart

July 12, 2024

As the temperature rises during the summer, so does the strain on your heart.

Does that mean you need to stay inside?

Not at all, says Osman Jaffer, MD, a cardiologist with Hartford HealthCare Heart & Vascular Institute.

Here’s how to enjoy summer and protect your heart in the heat.

How does heat affect your heart?

If it’s above 80°F outside, your heart goes to work.

“When it’s hot, your heart rate usually increases as it works harder to keep your body cool,” explains Dr. Jaffer. “This extra effort can cause dehydration, abnormal heart rhythms and even heart attacks.”

Hot weather can also exacerbate pre-existing heart conditions, including:

• Atrial fibrillation (arrhythmia).
• Pre-existing coronary artery disease.
• Valvular heart disease, such as aortic stenosis.

> Related: Best Foods for Heart Health

Sweating: Friend or foe in staying cool?

Like a car, your body tries to prevent overheating.

“Sweating more in the heat is your body’s natural way to stay cool,” says Dr. Jaffer. “But too much sweating can cause potential problems.”

Here’s how excessive sweating can affect your heart and cardiovascular system:

• Electrolyte imbalances can cause abnormal heart rhythms.
• Dehydration can lead to dizziness, light-headedness or fainting.
• People with heart disease have a higher risk of heart attacks.

7 tips for a heart-healthy summer.

You can still enjoy this warmer season even if you have heart health concerns.

Dr. Jaffer offers simple ways to take care of yourself:

1. Stay cool, especially when it’s over 85°F.
2. Limit outdoor time to 30-45 minutes at a time.
3. Have a place to sit nearby when outside for long periods.
4. Use shade (hat, umbrella) if outside for over an hour.
5. Stay in the shade as much as possible.
6. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
7. Exercise indoors on warmer days to keep up a healthy lifestyle.

> Want more health news? Text StartHere to 85209 to sign up for text alerts

Before you jump into summer, talk to your doctor.

“If you have pre-existing heart diseases like atrial fibrillation, prior stents, heart attack or valvular heart disease, your doctor can give you personalized recommendations for your summer lifestyle,” says Dr. Jaffer.

You should also know when to get help. Please seek emergency medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• If you feel like you are going to pass out.
• If you are having chest pain.
• If you are getting short of breath or having trouble breathing.

“Enjoying summer while keeping your heart healthy is easy with a few simple precautions,” says Dr. Jaffer. “For more advice, consult your doctor.”