As for exercise, scientific research shows that regular exercise is a cornerstone of cardiovascular disease prevention and lowers the risk of premature death.
The weather also impacts heart health—particularly summer heat. Here, a cardiologist explains the surprising way that being outside in the hot weather can impact blood pressure.
Most people don’t think about how the weather can impact heart health, but there’s a very real connection that it’s important to be aware of. Dr. Nieca Goldberg, MD, a cardiologist at NYU Langone Health and the founder of the Joan H. Tisch Center for Women’s Health at NYU Langone, explains that spending a prolonged amount of time outside in the summer heat can cause blood pressure to drop, which can be dangerous.
“The degree of change varies from person to person, as factors such as weight and fitness level can also play a role. Some people may feel lightheaded or dizzy, especially when standing up quickly or after being outside for an extended period,” Dr. Goldberg adds.
Other Ways Heat Impacts Cardiovascular Health
In addition to causing blood pressure to drop, Dr. Goldberg says that hot weather places additional demands on the heart because it has to work harder to cool the body. As a result, you may notice your heart rate rises more quickly, even during activities that normally feel easy.
The impact of heat on the heart can be deadly. According to a 2024 scientific study published in Circulation Research, there is a clear link between heat and an increased rate of death from cardiovascular disease. Researchers found that there is a 2.1% increase in cardiovascular disease mortality for every one degree increase in temperature.
With this in mind, it’s important to know how to protect your cardiovascular health during summer, especially if you have cardiovascular disease. Dr. Goldberg says that people with heart disease, low blood pressure, obesity, diabetes or kidney disease should be especially cautious during periods of extreme heat.
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If you have heart disease or another chronic medical condition, she suggests talking with your healthcare provider about how to stay safe during periods of extreme heat and whether any adjustments to your routine or medications may be appropriate.
“These symptoms should not be ignored, particularly in someone with a history of heart disease,” she tells Parade. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, stop what you are doing and move to a cool or air-conditioned place. “Drink water if you are able, loosen tight clothing and rest. If symptoms do not improve promptly, or if you experience chest pain, persistent shortness of breath, confusion or loss of consciousness, go to the ER immediately,” she adds.
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Sources
Atkins, J. L., Whincup, P. H., Morris, R. W., et al. (2014). High Quality Diet Is Associated with a Lower Risk of Cardiovascular Disease and All-Cause Mortality in Older Men. The Journal of Nutrition. 144(5):673-680.Mannakkara, N. N. and Finocchiaro, G. (2023). Exercise and the Heart: Benefits, Risks, and Adverse Effects of Exercise Training. Reviews in Cardiovascular Medicine. 24(3):94.Dr. Nieca Goldberg, MD, cardiologist at NYU Langone Health and the founder of the Joan H. Tisch Center for Women’s Health at NYU Langone.Singh, N., Areal, A. T., Brietner, S., et al. (2024). Heat and Cardiovascular Mortality: An Epidemiological Perspective.Circulation Research. doi.org/10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.123.323615.Hence then, the article about here s exactly what happens to your blood pressure when you sit outside all day in the heat according to a cardiologist was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
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