When the weather warms up, getting outside and enjoying the sunshine can be a treat for your mind and your body. But while it’s great to stay active during the summer, it’s also important to be mindful of the effect the climate may have on your heart. If you have heart disease or any other cardiovascular condition, here are a few summertime dangers to stay aware of—and what you can do to minimize your risk of complications.

What Heart Health Risks Are Associated With Summer?

It takes the body a lot of effort to sweat. Specifically, when you’re exposed to high temperatures, your heart must pump faster to boost circulation and trigger your body’s perspiration response. While healthy individuals can usually handle this activity with ease, those who are older, overweight, or have heart disease may find it more difficult. The weaker your heart, the more likely it is that this extra pumping will trigger a heart attack.

If you take heart disease medications, it’s also important to be wary of the heat. According to the American Heart Association, beta blockers, ace receptor blockers, ace inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, and diuretics are all medications that can intensify the body’s response to heat. Without taking the proper precautions, individuals who must take these medications may put themselves at greater risk of experienced heat stroke, dehydration, or other heat-related illness.

How Can You Protect Your Heart During the Summer?  

Keep Cool

If the temperature and humidity levels are high, avoid going outdoors for long periods and keep cool in an air-conditioned building instead. When you want to enjoy the summer, try to schedule activities for cooler times of the day—such as the early morning and evening. It’s also wise to wear breathable clothing and shoes so that your body can have an easier time sweating to stay cool.

Stay Hydrated

Fluid loss due to excessive perspiration can be stressful for the heart, as well as make it harder for your body to stay cool. To prevent dehydration, continue to drink water throughout the day—especially if you’re active or outdoors. The Mayo Clinic recommends 3.7 liters per day for men and 2.7 for women.

Choose Healthy Summer Snacks

Certain summer foods—such as hamburgers and potato chips—contain trans fats, excess sodium, and refined sugars that can be detrimental to heart health. To boost your cardiovascular wellness, opt for more nutritional items—including fish, whole grains, and fresh fruit.

If you’re concerned about your heart health, DiVagno Interventional Cardiology, MD, PA offers comprehensive support to patients in the Bergen County area. Specializing in cardiac care, this Rochelle Park, NJ, practice is qualified to treat a number of related conditions—including heart disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Providing personalized care for every patient, these compassionate heart doctors can also help you explore safe solutions to stay active and eat healthy in the summer heat. To learn more about their services, visit this provider online. If you’d like to schedule a consultation, call (201) 845-3535.