Staying cool and refreshed when the temperatures rise helps you maintain good health. However, moving around and staying out in the intense heat can have negative effects on your cardiovascular health. If you are managing heart disease or a congenital condition, following the right medical advice is crucial. These tips will help you enjoy the warmer weather and stay safe.

Dealing With Heart Disease in Hot Weather

1. Consult Your Cardiologist

Before beginning a power-packed exercise program or starting a new summer sport, consult your doctor or cardiologist. You want to make sure your health condition and fitness level match the new routine, especially if you plan to incorporate more anaerobic and cardio-based exercise. Depending on the activity, a stress test may be needed to evaluate your readiness.     

2. Drink Water Regularly

Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially before, while, and after engaging in physical activities. The body keeps cool by sweating, but you lose important nutrients, including potassium, calcium, and vitamin C, along with water during the process.

This loss puts more stress on your heart and affects muscles, nerves, and blood pressure, but consuming water replenishes the required hydration that’s depleted from the body. When taking medications, such as calcium channel blockers or angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, drinking more water is key to maintaining the proper balance of fluids in your body.     

3.  Monitor Outdoor Time

Avoid being out during the day when the sun is most intense, usually between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. When you’re outdoors, wear lightweight, white or light-colored, loose clothing in breathable fabrics, such as linen or cotton. Pay attention to signs and symptoms of heat stroke or heat exhaustion. If you experience nausea, vomiting, disorientation, muscle cramps, or skin that’s hot and dry or cold and clammy, get to a cool place and drink cold water, and seek medical help if symptoms continue. 

For comprehensive heart health services, contact Premier Cardiology Consultants. Based in Dothan, AL, Dr. Nidal Yunis and his team provide evaluations, including stress tests, and tell you clearly what your results mean. This clinic offers personalized heart disease and hypertension treatment. Visit this provider online to learn more about their services or call (334) 699-6396 to schedule an appointment.