Cardiovascular Patients Should Take Precautions Against Hot Weather

Cardiovascular Disease Patients Should Exercise Caution in Heat Cardiology Specialist Dr. Özgür Mete, noting that cardiovascular diseases rank at the top of fatal illnesses, stated that extra care is needed during summer months. Cardiology Specialist Dr. Özgür Mete at Özel Medicana Bursa Hastanesi, warning cardiovascular patients against extreme heat, said: "In excessively hot and humid weather, the number of patients experiencing heart attacks and deaths from cardiovascular disease is increasing. Particularly in the elderly and those with comorbidities, these numbers increase even further. As temperatures rise during summer months, blood vessels expand, leading to fluid and salt loss, increased heart rate, increased cardiac workload, and increased blood clotting tendency. Therefore, those in the risk group face a higher risk of heart attack." Stating that sweating is the body's most effective response to heat, Dr. Özgür Mete explained: "As water evaporates from moist skin, the skin begins to cool. This way, a decrease in the amount of fluid circulating in blood vessels leads to reduced blood volume passing through the kidneys. If adequate fluid intake is not maintained, this causes substances secreted from the kidneys and adrenal glands to narrow blood vessels and results in sudden blood pressure elevation and increased signs of cardiac insufficiency. In hot weather with excessive sweating, patients with hypertension and cardiac insufficiency, as well as those taking diuretic medications, must consume adequate amounts of fluid. Otherwise, kidney function deterioration and sudden blood pressure drops may occur. Excessive fluid loss in patients taking these medications causes sodium and potassium deficiency. This can cause heart rhythm disorders and mental confusion," he noted. Mete explained that patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease should remain in cool places as much as possible and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations develop. He continued with these recommendations: "For cardiovascular patients to spend the hot summer months more healthily, they should especially avoid direct sunlight during peak sun hours and stay in cool, shaded areas during these times. Strenuous sports should be avoided. Swimming for 30 minutes is permissible in early morning or evening hours when it is cooler. Heavy, fatty foods should be avoided and nutrition should focus on vegetables in small, frequent meals. Daily fluid consumption of 2–2.5 liters should be maintained. The sea and swimming pools should be entered on an empty stomach in morning and evening hours. The sea should not be entered immediately after eating."