How to protect your heart and stay healthy

The scorching heat continues... 5 ways to protect your heart and stay healthy

 

Protect your heart health, which works even more intensely in the heat.

 

The scorching heatwave is expected to continue. It is a time to pay close attention to preventing heat-related illnesses. When the heat is extreme, all body organs are affected, but especially the burden on the heart increases.

 

According to the American health and medical media 'Healthday,' heat poses a serious risk to the heart, so precautions should be taken to protect oneself.

Elderly people and those with hypertension, obesity, or a history of heart disease or stroke should be especially cautious.

 

If there is fever and dehydration, the heart pumps more blood.

Pump and move it beneath the skin in the major organs.

The heart works even harder to cool itself down.

 

According to research, when the average daily temperature reaches 42 degrees Celsius, the number of deaths due to heart disease can increase by 2 to 3 times, and the more the temperature fluctuates during the summer, the more severe strokes can become.

 

Experts say, "Although deaths and illnesses related to heat can be prevented, more than 600 people in the United States die each year due to extreme heat," and emphasize, "If you have heart disease, have had a stroke, are over 50, or are overweight, it is very important to pay special attention to the heat to protect your health."

 

They warn that some medications, such as angiotensin receptor blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and diuretics, which affect blood pressure response or deplete sodium in the body, can exaggerate the body's response to heat and cause illness in extreme heat.

 

They add, "However, you should not stop taking the medication," and suggest, "Learn how to stay refreshed and consult with your doctor about any concerns."

 

Even people with good heart health should take preventive measures against heat. Staying hydrated is important because dehydration can occur even if you don't feel thirsty. Experts say, "When the weather is hot, you should drink water before going out, during, and after, and you should consume enough fluids until your urine is light in color."

 

The following are safety tips provided by the American Heart Association (AHA) for staying healthy in hot weather.

 

△ Usually, do not go outside during the early afternoon when the sun is the strongest (12 PM to 3 PM).

 

Preparation for going out = Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing made of breathable fabrics such as cotton or moisture-wicking materials. Wear a hat and sunglasses. Before going out, apply a waterproof sunscreen with at least SPF 15, and reapply every two hours.

 

Before, during, and after outdoor activities or exercise, drink a few glasses of water = avoid caffeinated beverages or alcoholic drinks

 

△Take regular breaks = Stop for a few minutes in a shaded and cool place and hydrate.

 

Continue taking the medication as prescribed.

Heart