Saturday, March 29, 2025
As temperatures rise in April and May, the intense heat has a direct impact on our health. When the mercury crosses 40°C, dehydration becomes a common issue. However, dehydration is not just about dry mouth or fatigue—it can also significantly affect heart health, even increasing the risk of heart attacks. Here’s a detailed look at how and why this happens, along with signs and prevention methods.
During summer, heatwaves can severely affect people’s health. Post 9–10 AM, it becomes tough to step outdoors, and the rising heat increases body temperature and causes fluid loss, leading to dehydration. There’s a direct link between dehydration and heart-related complications, although symptoms may initially seem like heat-related discomfort.
As of 1 PM on April 14, the temperature in Delhi was already at 37°C, expected to exceed 40°C by the end of the month.
According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, over 1,300 deaths annually in the U.S. are attributed to heart attacks, with extreme heat being a major contributor. A 2023 study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association confirms that high temperatures and heatwaves increase the risk of heart attacks.
When someone is dehydrated:
Blood volume decreases, making it harder for the heart to pump blood efficiently.
This results in thicker blood, increased heart rate, and unstable blood pressure.
These changes put extra strain on the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of fainting, fatigue, or heart attack, especially in vulnerable individuals.
Heart patients, especially those on medication, must stay well-hydrated.
People with a history of heart attacks or liver diseases are more susceptible.
Lifestyle factors like smoking, excessive intake of cold drinks, high cholesterol, and lack of sweating can increase heart risks in the summer.
Dr. Jeffrey H. Graf, MD, a cardiologist, advises heart patients to maintain high hydration levels during summer. He recommends monitoring urine color as a sign—darker urine often indicates dehydration.
Feeling unusually anxious
Dizziness or fainting
Shortness of breath
Excessive fatigue or chest tightness
According to Dr. Shikha Verma, founder of Nutri Health, follow these to stay safe in summer:
Exercise early morning before the sun rises.
Stay hydrated—especially those spending long hours in air-conditioned rooms.
Consume vegetable juices, salads, and raw greens.
Eat Indian gooseberry (amla) for its cooling properties.
Include summer fruits like cucumber, bottle gourd, and watermelon.
Drink coconut water, ORS, and other electrolyte-rich fluids.
