As the “Kleon” heat wave is expected to afflict the country in the coming days, vulnerable groups and especially heart patients must follow specific protection measures.

How high temperatures take a toll on heart patients

As stated by Gerasimos Siassos, president of the Faculty of Medicine EKPA, professor of Cardiology, 3rd University Cardiology Clinic, “I SOTIRIA” Hospital, “when the ambient temperature is high, the adaptive mechanisms to maintain normal body temperature lead to an increased cardiac work. The body in high temperature conditions activates thermoregulatory mechanisms in order to eliminate excess heat. Specifically:

– The heart rate increases (tachycardia) in order to increase the cardiac output and meet the increased demands of the body.

– Sweat glands are activated to expel heat through evaporation.

– Vasodilatation is caused in the vessels of the skin, so that the heat is expelled.

– The frequency and depth of breathing increase to expel hot air.

These protective changes place a burden on the cardiovascular system, particularly for patients with pre-existing heart disease and marginal balance of cardiac function.

What symptoms may warn us to seek medical help?

High ambient temperatures can cause:

– Weakness

– Exhaustion

– Cramps

– Heat stroke. This threatening condition occurs after prolonged exposure to the sun, especially during periods of heat and is manifested by a sudden increase in body temperature (> 40-41 ° C), a strong feeling of thirst, dryness and redness of the skin, confused behavior, even with convulsions and loss of consciousness-coma.

In addition, symptoms of any pre-existing underlying heart disease such as:

– Chest discomfort/pain

– Shortness of breath

– Palpitations

– Dizziness

– Loss of conscience

In the event of the appearance of any of the above symptoms, the patient should immediately seek medical help from a cardiologist.

What should vulnerable groups do in the heat?

According to the guidelines of the Hellenic Cardiology Society, patients with underlying heart disease, such as coronary heart disease, heart failure, valvular diseases, cardiomyopathies, pulmonary hypertension, should take the following measures:

1. Avoiding exposure to the sun and moving during the hours of high radiation (12:00-16:00). Maintain body temperature with frequent, lukewarm showers. Choose appropriate clothing (light, light-colored clothing).

2. Avoiding heavy physical work and excessive exercise.

3. Avoiding large meals. Contact with sea water must be gradual and at least 2 hours have passed since the last meal.

4. Stay in a cool place, preferably ventilated with fresh air or in air-conditioned rooms.

5. Consuming plenty of fluids (up to 1.5-2 liters). Patients with heart failure should regularly monitor their body weight to avoid possible systemic congestion from increased fluid administration.

6. Limiting the consumption of alcoholic beverages and caffeine, as they increase dehydration.

7. Consuming plenty of water-rich fruits and vegetables (eg melon, peach, cucumber, tomatoes, etc.)

8. Modification of medication after communication with the cardiologist. It is probably necessary to reduce the dosage or the frequency of administration of the antihypertensive drugs, especially when symptoms such as weakness, dizziness occur. Possible reduction of the dose of diuretic treatment especially in case of hypotension, weakness, confusion, dizziness. Modification of diuretic therapy should be done under regular control of blood pressure and body weight.

Therefore, the attention of our fellow citizens who belong to vulnerable groups is essential. It is also imperative to contact the cardiologist upon the appearance of symptoms (discomfort/pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, dizziness, etc.) in order to optimally regulate the treatment and prevent the unpleasant effects of high ambient temperature on the cardiovascular system, concludes the Mr. Siassos.