BHF comment
Important hot weather advice for heart patients amid heat alerts
Published:
Published:
As temperatures soar across parts of the UK, we have warned of the potential dangers posed by the hot weather for people with heart conditions.
Hot weather can present specific risks for people with heart conditions because the heart has to work harder to keep the body’s core temperature at normal levels.
In hot weather, your blood vessels dilate, which can lead to a drop in blood pressure. Studies have shown this puts people with cardiovascular disease at greater risk of health complications and even death, though more research is needed.
We are encouraging people with heart conditions to take precautions to minimise potential health risks during a heat wave. Earlier this week, yellow heat alerts were issued for most of England.
Ruth Goss, our Senior Cardiac Nurse, said: “You can be at greater risk from the heat if you have a heart condition, as high temperatures can put extra strain on your heart.
“Elderly people and very young children have more difficulty regulating their temperature and so can be more at risk from extreme temperatures. In hot weather, check on your friends and relatives regularly to make sure they are cool and comfortable.
“The most important way you can protect your heart in the heat is to stay cool and keep hydrated.”