Extremely hot weather adversely affects the heart

Cardiology specialist Dr. Dilek Cahide Haznedar Kırcı stated that heart patients should drink plenty of water to prevent water loss in hot weather.

Pointing out that sweating due to extreme heat can cause problems that can sometimes be serious in heart patients, such as a decrease in blood pressure and an increase in heart rate, Kırcı said: Sweating, decreased blood pressure and increased heart rate can cause problems in heart patients, which can be serious at times. Heart patients are much more sensitive to abnormal outside temperatures than other people. Temperatures and the humidity that occur with the rise in temperature can cause blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and heart failure.

Heart patients should drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration in hot weather. “At least 2.5 liters of water per day is ideal.”
Listing the precautions to be taken in hot weather, Kırcı said, “It is recommended to consume an average of 2.5-3 liters of fluid per day. Early or late afternoon is preferable to go out. Light-colored, light, loose, tightly woven fabrics are preferred, hats, sunglasses and sunscreen (with a factor of at least 15) are recommended. Exercise should be avoided during the hours when the air temperature is high (between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.). Those with chronic conditions such as heart disease and diabetes should consult their doctor and have a general health check before exercising in hot and humid weather. Again, those who are over their ideal weight, children, the elderly and pregnant/breastfeeding women should not exercise in hot weather and should avoid going outside in the afternoon when it is even hotter. Alcohol consumption should be limited. Alcohol, especially under the sun, can cause serious problems. It should be remembered that caffeine causes more fluid loss from the body due to the diuretic properties of alcohol.

Avoid the consumption of fatty foods and fried foods.

Kırcı noted that fatty foods should be avoided and said: “Seasonal fruits and vegetables should be consumed, especially the folic acid and minerals contained in green vegetables play a decisive role in fulfilling the functions of the body in a healthy way. Consumption of fatty foods and fried foods should be avoided Vegetable oils should be used in meals When cooking meals healthy cooking methods should be used instead of frying and roasting such as boiling, grilling, cooking in its own juice or in less water.