People with heart condition's issued warning as temperatures rise across Wales
Temperatures in parts of Wales are forecast to exceed 30°C later this week
With another spell of hot weather forecast across Wales later this week, heart disease charities are urging people to take extra care of their heart, reminding the public that high temperatures place additional strain on the cardiovascular system. The warning comes as temperatures in parts of Wales are forecast to exceed 30°C later this week.
The charity Calon Hearts says that while many people think about sunburn or dehydration during a heatwave, fewer realise that the heart has to work significantly harder to keep the body cool.
When temperatures rise, blood vessels widen to release heat through the skin, causing the heart to pump faster and harder to maintain blood pressure
At the same time, sweating reduces blood volume and depletes essential salts, placing further demands on the cardiovascular system.
For most healthy people these changes are temporary. But for those living with heart disease, high blood pressure or an undiagnosed heart condition, prolonged periods of hot weather can increase the risk of complications.
Sharon Owen, Founder and Chief Executive of Calon Hearts, said:
"Most people associate a heatwave with sunburn, dehydration or feeling uncomfortable, but many don't realise just how much harder their heart has to work in hot weather.
"As your body tries to cool itself, your heart has to pump more blood around your body, your heart rate increases and you lose fluids and important minerals through sweating. For some people, particularly those with underlying heart conditions, that extra strain can become significant.
"The good news is that there are some simple steps people can take to protect themselves and those around them."
Advice for those with heart conditions:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day and avoid becoming dehydrated.
- Stay cool by seeking shade or spending time indoors during the hottest part of the day, particularly between 11am and 3pm.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
- Take regular breaks if exercising or working outdoors.
- Check in on elderly relatives, neighbours, friends and anyone with an existing heart condition or other health concerns.
- Know where your nearest publicly accessible defibrillator is before an emergency happens.Always call 999 immediately if someone collapses or is experiencing a suspected cardiac emergency.