During a heatwave, our heart is put under significant strain as it works harder to regulate our body temperature. It is crucial to prioritize proper hydration, a balanced diet, and staying cool to ensure our cardiovascular health remains in top shape. Silent heart attacks, which make up half of all heart attacks, can go unnoticed as they present with subtle symptoms rather than the typical chest pain and shortness of breath. This can increase the risk of mortality if not identified and treated promptly.
According to heart.org, women and diabetics are at a higher risk of experiencing silent heart attacks. These silent myocardial infarctions can manifest as symptoms such as fatigue, heartburn, indigestion, and gastric reflux, which are often overlooked. Harvard University reports that nearly 45% of heart attacks are silent, making it easier for individuals to ignore the warning signs and delay seeking medical help.
The impact of extreme heat on heart function is significant. Dr. Sashi K Srivastav, a Consultant Interventional Cardiologist at Yashoda Hospitals Hyderabad, explains that in hot temperatures, the body loses fluids through increased sweating, leading to dehydration. This causes the heart to work harder to maintain proper blood circulation, putting additional strain on the organ. For individuals with underlying conditions like hypertension and diabetes, the risk of a heart attack can be heightened during summer heatwaves.
To prevent silent heart attacks during the hot weather, individuals with pre-existing heart issues should avoid heavy exercising, stay hydrated, and remain indoors whenever possible. Dr. V. Rajasekhar, a Senior Consultant Interventional Cardiology, emphasizes the importance of recognizing warning signs that may indicate a silent heart attack, such as excessive sweating, fatigue, shortness of breath, and dizziness.
It is crucial to differentiate between symptoms of a heatwave and those of a heart attack. Dr. Sakshi advises conducting proper testing, including ECG, 2D echo, and blood tests like Troponin, to accurately diagnose and treat any potential heart issues during extreme temperatures. Staying vigilant and proactive about heart health during hot weather is essential in ensuring overall well-being.
