The heart is a very crucial organ of the body and it is very necessary to keep it healthy. The number of heart patients is increasing day by day all over the world. The number of deaths from heart diseases reportedly increased from 12.4 million in 1990 to 19.8 million in 2022. Family history, diabetes, high blood pressure, lifestyle, ageing, gender or smoking are some of the main causes of heart disease. It has been reported that increasing temperatures can also cause heart diseases. Excessive heat puts more stress on the heart. High humidity and temperatures cause increased blood flow, causing the heart to pump twice as much blood as on a normal day. It increases the risk of heart attack and heart failure. Blood flow per minute doubles or quadruples the normal blood flow in summer. Narrowing of arteries due to cholesterol can block blood flow, while diseases like diabetes and stroke also affect heart health. So it is very important to protect yourself during the summer. Here is a list of things one should follow to take care of the heart.
Stay inside and avoid going outside during the hotter periods of the day. If you have to go out due to unavoidable reasons, plan in the morning or evening or seek shade during peak hours.
Staying hydrated during the summer is essential. Make sure you drink enough water, even if you are not thirsty.
Hydrate yourself at 20-minute intervals. If you are undergoing treatment, drink water as advised by your doctor. You can also add hydrating foods to your diet.
Make sure you use sunscreen with the right SPF for your skin, if you have to go outside during the summer. Make sure to wear a hat, sunglasses and loose cotton clothes.
Avoid soda, caffeine and alcohol. It dehydrates your body. It is important to avoid these to prevent dehydration. You can drink fruit juices and water instead.
Keep your heart healthy by following the above tips. In case of any emergency, such as sudden sweating, chest pain or difficulty breathing, consult a doctor immediately.