SACRAMENTO, Calif. — In the middle of a long and dangerous heatwave, it’s important to take precautions when exercising in the heat — especially when it comes to heart health.
Anyone can be at risk, whether you’re a seasoned athlete or someone who just walks their dog.
Dr. Scott Meier Kaiser Permanente Sports Medicine Physician says exercising during extreme heat can create additional strain on the heart in surprising and potentially deadly ways.
“Sometimes it can be a lot for that system,” he said.
Meier says it’s important to monitor your body temperature and recognize early signs of heat related illnesses, especially if you take blood pressure medicines.
“Those meds don't always allow our heart to react to the heat,” he said. “Sometimes, like a beta blocker, may slow down our heart rate. So our heart doesn't react as quickly to the demands that our body is asking for. So sometimes we can be compromised.”
The cardiovascular system is central to regulating body temperature. According to the National Institute of Health, extreme heat can lead to more cardiovascular related deaths.
Meier says older adults and families with children should be especially caution in the heat.
“Sometimes you're on the cool water. And you don't feel like you're sweating, you don't feel like you're hot, and sometimes you are,” he said. “Your body is getting stressed out more than you think.”
When the body isn’t able to properly cool itself, dangerous heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion or heat stroke can occur. You can combat these illnesses by staying in the shade, keeping hydrated and avoiding exercising between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when it’s the hottest.
Here are some other tips to keep in mind:
- Wear light-colored and loose-fitting clothing
- Wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
- Drink an 8-ounce glass of water every 20 minutes you’re sweating and being active, avoid alcohol or drinks with excessive amounts of caffeine or sugar
- Watch for these symptoms: headache, dry mouth, dizziness, decreased urine, fatigue and confusion
If you’re having chest pain when working out in the heat, heart attacks are a possibility. If you’re having these symptoms or things don’t feel right, seek medical help immediately.
