When the thermometers start to rise and the heat is here to stay, taking some precautions is a good idea. Especially in heart patients, for whom high temperatures entail more risks. The main ones are due to not sufficiently replacing the liquids that are lost due to heat.
And it is that, in times when temperatures are very high, such as during the summer, alterations of the thermoregulation mechanism are more likely , which tries, through sweat and the dilation of peripheral blood vessels, to reduce body temperature. This can also increase states of dehydration and drastically lower blood pressure to the point of causing dizziness and, in extreme cases, syncope or heat stroke. On the other hand, the dehydration produced by the heat in turn causes hemoconcentration, which favors thromboembolic accidents.
The one that is most affected by the heat is the circulatory system , since when the body loses more liquids than usual, as it happens at this time due to sweat, and these are not replenished, the volume of liquids in the circulatory stream decreases. To this is added that the heat produces a vasodilation of the entire arterial system, which leads to a slower circulation. And although this scenario can affect anyone, it is advisable to take precautions especially in the case of cardiovascular patients because it can affect more those who suffer from a heart disease.
For this reason, during the summer, when dehydration, which prevents the normal functioning of the organs, is more likely due to a greater loss of liquids due to sweat, it is advisable to follow a series of recommendations with which to keep the possible risks that it causes at bay. this fluid loss. These are the main ones:
– Drink water throughout the day. Staying hydrated , drinking enough water throughout the day without waiting until you’re thirsty, is the most effective measure. Otherwise, we can suffer a feeling of tiredness, slight dizziness, low blood pressure figures or tachycardia, followed by muscle contractures or cramps, which are the symptoms of dehydration. As a general rule, it is recommended that boys between the ages of 9 and 13 consume about 2.1 liters per day and girls, 1.9. From that age, women should consume at least 2 liters a day, a little more if they are pregnant or breastfeeding, while for men the recommended amount is 2.5 liters.
– Consume fruits and vegetables. Fruits , especially juicy ones, are rich in water and can contribute significantly to the total intake of water we need. Vegetables and vegetables also have a high water content, between 75 and 95% of their composition.
– Try to avoid alcohol consumption. Drinking alcohol in summer can cause us to dehydrate more easily, so if its consumption is discouraged at any time of the year, even more so during these months.
– Avoid doing physical exercise outdoors during the hottest hours . To do sports during the summer, the best options are sunrise and sunset.
– Wear appropriate clothing for the weather. The best option when temperatures are high is that the garments we choose breathe well and are light.
– Wearing a hat that protects us from the heat is a good idea. Much of the liquid that we lose through sweat is eliminated through the head. That is why it is convenient to wear a cap at least during the hottest hours to avoid it at least in part.
