If you are an individual that suffers from a heart-related condition such as high blood pressure, congenital heart defects, coronary artery disease, abnormal heart rhythms, angina, or another complication, it is imperative that you take special care to protect yourself during the summer months.
According to medical professionals, immense summer time heat is exceptionally hard on the heart. Additionally, if you have another medical condition – such as diabetes – or you are overweight, and/or over the age of 50, you, too, should take special care when engaging in outdoor activities during the summer months.
Consult with a Medical Professional
Before embarking on a journey into the great outdoors, starting an outdoor exercise plan, or engaging in other outdoor activities that require exposure to the immense heat of the summer months, you should consult with a medical professional.
This is especially true if you suffer from a heart issue, a chronic disease, or take certain types of medications. There are medications that can actually exaggerate the unique response of the body to heat. Examples of these include beta blockers, ace inhibitors, ace receptors, diuretics, and calcium channel blockers.
If you take these types of medications, you should continue to do so under doctor’s orders and never skip a dose simply to expose yourself to summer time heat. Before starting any outdoor activity that takes you away from air-conditioned spaces, you should always consult with a medical professional.
Signs of Heat Exhaustion
If you do go outdoors and are exposed to the immense summer time heat, you should become aware of signs that could indicate that you are suffering from heat exhaustion.
If you find that you experience any of the following symptoms, it is imperative that you relocate to a cooler area, that you cease all physical activity, and that you use methods such as fanning and wet cloths to cool your body down. If you continue to experience symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:
- Headache
- Skin That is Cool and Moist
- Light-Headedness
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Output of Dark Urine
Heat Stroke Symptoms
Heat stroke is a serious heat-related illness that could not only negatively impact your heart, but, it could be potentially fatal. If you experience heat stroke symptoms, you must call 911 for help right away.
Medical assistance should not be avoided. The following outlines the symptoms that indicate a true and serious health emergency:
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Light-Headedness
- Fever above 104
- Skin That is Hot, Red, and Dry
- Rapid and Shallow Breathing
- Rapid and Weak Pulse
- Behavior That is Irrational
- Seizures
- Losing Consciousness
Air Conditioning a Must
If you suffer from a heart-related condition, take medications for your cardiovascular health, and/or suffer from another type of chronic medical condition, air conditioning is a must.
If you are overweight, over the age of 50, and are sensitive to heat, air conditioning should be installed in your home, as well. Heat is often referred to as the “silent killer”. No chances should be taken.
In addition to having an air conditioner during the summer months, it should be functioning properly. For installation or for maintenance, protect your heart and health by contacting us today: https://ronaldsmithhvac.com/schedule/