Medical studies have confirmed that hot weather and high humidity significantly affect people with heart or circulatory conditions—or even those predisposed to them. These environmental factors cause hormonal, chemical, and physiological changes that force the heart to beat faster, placing an extra burden on both the heart and circulatory system. This added strain can lead to loss of sodium and potassium, elevated stress hormones, and ultimately serious health complications.
When increased blood flow to the skin is coupled with dehydration, this can cause a drop in blood pressure, dizziness, or even fainting. That’s why heart patients must receive full health guidance and summer awareness programs—enabling them to enjoy a summer vacation that benefits both their physical and mental well-being. Let’s explore what medical professionals recommend during the hot season.
Dr. Ahmed Al-Fatlawi, a cardiology specialist, stresses that extreme heat disrupts the proteins that build and sustain the body, halting vital biochemical processes. Numerous studies have shown that high temperatures can be fatal, particularly for individuals with cardiovascular diseases. According to Dr. Al-Fatlawi, recent medical research indicates an increase in heart-related deaths during heatwaves. The findings show that the longer the heatwave lasts, the higher the risk of cardiovascular fatalities.
He adds, "When daily peak temperatures exceed 45°C (113°F) for four consecutive days—or even just 40°C (104°F)—we, as medical professionals, must implement safety guidelines for citizens, especially heart, diabetes, and hypertension patients." Preventive measures are crucial to reducing heat-related deaths, particularly when high temperatures persist for days.
Dr. Al-Fatlawi also explains that elderly individuals and women are at greater risk during heatwaves. This vulnerability may be due to physiological differences in how their bodies respond to heat stress, along with differences in social and living conditions. Older adults, in particular, have a reduced ability to regulate body temperature, making them more susceptible to dangerous complications. Prolonged heat exposure also significantly increases cardiovascular mortality rates among outdoor workers.
How Heat Affects the Heart
Dr. Kazem Hameed, a cardiologist, explains that the human body’s average core temperature is around 37°C (98.6°F). When surrounding temperatures rise, this natural balance is disrupted, exacerbating certain health issues—especially for those who don’t stay hydrated. If left unaddressed, these issues may begin mildly but quickly worsen. In hot weather, people may experience: Dehydration, Low blood pressure, Increased heart rate due to circulatory overactivity, Chest pain (angina) from heart strain, Worsening of heart failure
In many of these cases, hospitalization may be necessary to restore body stability. More severe cases may involve irregular heart rhythms due to overexertion and excessive circulatory activity. Those who exercise in hot weather are especially at risk. Physical activity, combined with heat and humidity, raises the body’s core temperature. The body attempts to cool itself by pumping more blood to the skin and increasing sweating, which reduces blood flow to muscles and forces the heart to work harder. When humidity is high, sweat doesn’t evaporate effectively, further raising body temperature.
Dr. Hameed points out that some conditions worsen significantly when body temperature rises. In hot weather, the elderly and very young children struggle more to regulate body heat, putting them at greater risk. Key heat-sensitive conditions include:
Angina (Chest Pain):
Individuals with coronary artery disease often experience worsened symptoms during heatwaves. These patients may suffer from angina or even deteriorate rapidly due to the heart’s increased oxygen demand under physical stress.
Heart Failure:
People with heart failure must stay cool, as their hearts cannot pump blood efficiently. If advised to drink more fluids, they should also discuss with their doctor the best ways to stay cool during summer.
Dr. Hameed concludes by warning that heart patients and older adults are highly vulnerable in hot weather. Their bodies are no longer as resilient, and they face serious risks like heatstroke and dangerous fluid loss due to excessive sweating—which can, in some cases, be fatal.
