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Ever more frequent heat waves promise deadly heart strain and an epidemic of heart failure. These warnings come from a Montreal Heart Institute review of the consequences of extreme heat events.

Even beyond heat stroke with its dangerously high body temperatures, confusion, nausea and vomiting, environmental temperatures in the 100’s put a dangerous strain on your heart. In a futile attempt to cool the body by superpowering its sweat glands, the heart ramps up its pumping function to dangerously high levels.

Those with pre-existing medical problems, particularly cardiovascular disease, are at particular risk. The heat-associated heart strain can readily trigger heart attacks and ultimate heart failure.

To prevent these heat-related consequences, Canadian provinces routinely warn the public 18-24 hours before heat events with suggestions about how to beat the heat. To prevent heat-driven heart damage, we must all seek air conditioning or use fans, remain hydrated, and dunk in comfortably cool water if possible.

So you say, why worry about this now. Fact is, many of you may be heading south to beat the cold, and you may just find more heat than you expect or want. Just saying, when it’s hot, remember your heart.

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/11/211118061604.htm

#heat #heart #heartfailure #heartattack #heatwave

Extremely Hot Weather Damages Your Heart - Best Of: 11/25/2021

Dr. Howard Smith Reports