It’s no secret that hot weather can have an impact on our bodies. For most of us the warmer months mean sweltering days spent trying to stay cool. But did you know that hot weather can also have an impact on our heart health?
Several studies have shown that hot weather can increase heart rate and blood pressure and can also contribute to cardiac events such as heart attacks and strokes. So what exactly is happening when our heart rate increases in hot weather?
Our bodies are designed to regulate our internal temperature and one of the ways it does this is by increasing blood flow to the skin. This is why we tend to perspire when it’s hot outside – our bodies are trying to cool us down.
However this increase in blood flow can also put a strain on the heart. The heart has to work harder to pump the blood around the body and this can lead to an increase in heart rate. In addition the blood vessels in the skin dilate in response to the heat which means that more blood is pooling in the extremities. This can lead to a decrease in blood pressure which can cause dizziness and lightheadedness.
If you’re healthy and fit then your heart should be able to cope with the extra strain of hot weather. However if you have a heart condition then you may be at increased risk of experiencing problems. If you have heart disease high blood pressure or arrhythmias you should speak to your doctor about how to stay safe in hot weather.
There are a few things you can do to help keep your heart healthy in hot weather:
– Stay hydrated: make sure you’re drinking plenty of fluids especially water to help keep your blood pressure stable.
– Limit your alcohol intake: alcohol can dehydrate you and also contributes to dehydration.
– Avoid strenuous activity: if it’s very hot outside avoid strenuous activity. This will help to keep your heart rate down.
– Wear loose cool clothing: if you can wear loose cool clothing to help keep your body temperature down.
– Stay in the shade: try to stay in the shade as much as possible to limit your exposure to the sun.
– Don’t skip meals: it’s important to eat regular meals even if you don’t feel very hungry. Skipping meals can lead to low blood sugar which can be dangerous for your heart.
If you start to feel unwell in hot weather seek medical help immediately. Symptoms of a heart attack include chest pain shortness of breath and sweating. If you experience these symptoms call 911 or your local emergency number.
What is the average human resting heart rate?
The average human heart rate is 70 beats per minute.
What is the heart rate when a person is doing cardiovascular exercise?
The heart rate during cardiovascular exercise can be anywhere from 130 to 160 beats per minute.
What is the heart rate when a person is doing anaerobic exercise?
The heart rate during anaerobic exercise can be anywhere from 160 to 180 beats per minute.
Does hot weather increase heart rate?
Yes hot weather can increase heart rate.
Does cold weather increase heart rate?
No cold weather does not increase heart rate.
What is the heart rate when a person is lying down?
The heart rate when a person is lying down is usually between 60 and 100 beats per minute.
What is the heart rate when a person is standing up?
The heart rate when a person is standing up is usually between 100 and 120 beats per minute.
What is the heart rate when a person is sitting down?
The heart rate when a person is sitting down is usually between 60 and 100 beats per minute.
What is the heart rate when a person is walking?
The heart rate when a person is walking is usually between 100 and 160 beats per minute.
What is the heart rate when a person is running?
The heart rate when a person is running is usually between 160 and 180 beats per minute.
What is the heart rate when a person is sleeping?
The heart rate when a person is sleeping is usually between 60 and 100 beats per minute.
Does stress increase heart rate?
Yes stress can increase heart rate.
Does anxiety increase heart rate?
Yes anxiety can increase heart rate.
Does caffeine increase heart rate?
Yes caffeine can increase heart rate.
Does alcohol increase heart rate?
Yes alcohol can increase heart rate.
