7 Tips for Managing Heart Disease in the Summer Heat

“Heat causes the body to work harder to cool itself, increasing the heart rate and blood flow, which can strain the overall cardiovascular system,” says Rosy Thachil, MD, a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology and director of the cardiac intensive care unit at Elmhurst Hospital Center in Elmhurst, New York.

1. Stay Well-Hydrated

Drinking water is especially important when exercising or doing any activities outside in the heat. “Adequate hydration helps reduce the amount of strain on the heart by helping it pump blood more efficiently and helping the body’s muscles function more efficiently,” says Emily Cendrowski, MD, a cardiologist at the BJC Medical Group in St. Louis.

When it comes to fluids, “water is best to prevent dehydration and heat stress,” says Thachil. Avoid drinking soda or sugary drinks, as these don’t have hydrating benefits. In fact, “caffeinated, sugary, and alcoholic beverages can worsen dehydration,” says Dr. Cendrowski.

• Watermelon
• Oranges
• Strawberries
• Cantaloupe
• Peaches
• Cucumbers
• Celery
• Lettuce
• Tomatoes

2. Avoid Exercising During the Hottest Times of Day

Aim to avoid direct sunlight, always keep a water bottle on hand, and take rest breaks in the shade, adds Thachil.

Be sure to discuss your exercise plan with your healthcare provider. They can discuss any potential safety concerns and advise you on what’s best for you and managing your heart disease.

3. Know the Signs and Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

• Heavy sweating
• Having cool skin and goosebumps despite sweating
• Feeling faint and fatigued
• Having a headache
• Experiencing muscle cramps

• Confusion or delirium
• Dizziness
• Feeling fatigued
• Seizures
• Fast heart rate
• Quick, shallow breathing
• Nausea and vomiting
• Having a body temperature of 103 degrees or more

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In general, “watch for chest pain, excessive sweating, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, weakness, or confusion,” says Thachil. “These may suggest heat exhaustion or heat stroke requiring immediate medical attention.”

4. Protect Your Skin

To prevent a sunburn, wear sunscreen and hats while outside, and try to stay in shady areas, says Laura Sutaria, MD, MPH, a cardiologist at Montefiore Health System in Bronx, New York. “Sunburns can actually make it harder for your body to cool off effectively.”

5. Avoid the Outdoors When Air Quality Is Bad

6. Cool Down Your Home and Maintain Indoor Air Quality

Throughout the warmer months, aim to “keep indoor temperatures cool, ideally between 70 and 75 degrees F (21 and 24 degrees C), using fans or air conditioning,” says Thachil. “Avoid sudden temperature changes and ensure proper ventilation to reduce heat stress.”

On really hot days, such as when it’s over 90 degrees F, be extra careful when using fans alone to cool down, as they can cause your body temperature to rise. If you don’t have air-conditioning at home, look for cooling centers in your area. Or head to your local library or a shopping center, as these facilities are likely to have air-conditioning.

7. Discuss Medication Options With Your Doctor

If you’re taking any of these medications and are having difficulty navigating the heat, Cendrowski advises talking with your doctor “to see if it is appropriate to hold certain medications that increase risk of dehydration and poor response to the heat.”

Your doctor knows your medical history and can discuss with you potential risks and benefits of temporarily stopping these medications. They may be able to offer alternative medications or treatments to help, too.

The Takeaway

• High temperatures in the summer months can cause your heart to work harder to cool down your body. The heat can increase your heart rate and risk of dehydration and serious complications like heat stroke.
• Staying hydrated, avoiding exercise during the hottest parts of the day, protecting your skin, and checking air quality scores before heading outside can help you safely manage your condition.
• Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and act quickly if you or someone else begins to experience them. Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, which can be life-threatening.