TV GP reveals little-known effect of heat on heart health
UK summers are getting hotter – the past few months have proved it.
While you might be making the most of sun-soaked days before the leaves turn, a TV GP says that when temperatures climb, so too does the strain on our bodies – and our hearts may be the first to feel the pressure.
Dr Punam Krishan – a GP working with stairlift and home lift company Stannah – outlines the signs of a heart working a little too hard, who is more prone and, importantly, how you (and your loved ones) can keep cool and be kind to your cardiac health whether at home or on holiday. who is more prone and, importantly, how you (and your loved ones) can keep cool and be kind to your cardiac health whether at home or on holiday.
She begins: “Hot weather can place a strain on the cardiovascular system. When the body overheats, it tries to cool down by directing more blood to the skin’s surface and activating sweat glands. This process is called thermoregulation, and it relies heavily on the heart.
“It sounds alarming, but is important to note, that studies show for every 1°C increase above 24°C, the chance of a heart attack rises by around 2.1%. This becomes more significant during prolonged heatwaves or humid conditions, where the body struggles to regulate temperature, and dehydration is more likely to occur. For someone with an already stressed or weakened heart, the sun can take its toll.”
Symptoms and signs of heat-related heart stress to watch out for:
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Unusual fatigue or weakness
- Nausea or vomiting
- A racing or irregular heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Feeling faint or near-faint
- Flushed or reddened skin
- Clammy, cool sweat or excessive sweating
- Rapid breathing or a fast pulse
- Unusual behaviour or confusion (particularly in older adults – often mistaken for tiredness or “a bad day”)
“These signs mean the body is under stress”, says Dr Punam. “Older people and those with heart conditions may not feel thirsty or overheated in the same way as younger people, so visible signs are often your first clue.
“If symptoms don’t settle after 30 minutes – or if chest pain, confusion, fainting, or breathlessness occurs – it’s worth calling 999. These can be signs of heatstroke or heart strain, which need immediate care.”
Heart health advice for holidaymakers travelling abroad
Dr Asimah Hanif, an NHS GP working with specialist medical travel insurer Staysure, calls for greater cardiovascular health awareness when travelling aboard to warmer climates.
“Being away from familiar surroundings, dealing with travel fatigue, and spending long days outdoors without reliable access to air conditioning or shade can quickly lead to overheating and dehydration. These factors add extra strain, especially for those with existing heart conditions.
“Many travellers delay or miss taking medications and ignore early symptoms because they don’t want to interrupt their holiday, which can be dangerous. Knowing where to find medical care and accessible cooling spaces is crucial to stay safe while travelling.”
How to protect your heart health in high temperatures
When temperatures rise, taking proactive steps to safeguard your heart is key. Dr Punam offers these manageable tips:
“Some simple, clinically proven ways to keep the body and heart safe in high temperatures include staying well hydrated – small, frequent sips of water are the best.
“Avoid peak heat (11am–3pm) – try to stay indoors during these hours. Rest in a cool area – ideally upstairs, with a fan, open window, or blackout blinds to reduce indoor heat and cool showers regulate your core temperature. Wearing light, loose clothes and using a cool flannel on your wrists or neck make a difference, too.
“Heart health is also built on consistent, sustainable habits. Where possible, make sure you’re staying active (outside of peak heat times) even for just 20-30 minutes daily through walking or swimming.
“Eat heart-healthy foods which include plenty of fruit and veg, whole grains, oily fish and unsalted nuts. Sleep well, as poor sleep can also impact cardiovascular wellness, and try to keep your stress levels down through breathing exercises, mindfulness and simple rest.”
While the likelihood is you’ll remain in good health, awareness – and taking steps to look after your wellbeing, whatever the weather – can only be beneficial.