Heart health during the summer

POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. (KBSI) – Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center officials encourage people to get educated on heart health as the summer temperatures rise. 

According to the National Institute of Health, for every degree the body temperature rises, the heart beats approximately 10 beats per minute faster. This can take a toll on the heart and other parts of body leading to things like heat stroke or heat exhaustion.

Dr. Juan Carlos Ruiz is a cardiologist at the Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center. He says those with existing heart conditions or taking medication are at a higher risk for getting overheated during the summer and he gives expert advice on how to keep your body cool.

“Get acquainted with your body and kind of listen to it. So, if you’re thirsty, if you’re feeling dizzy or lightheaded, if your sweating, if your sweating profusely all of these things should make you stop and think, “Have I been at this a little longer than I think? Do I need to stop and take a break? Do I need to grab something else to drink?” The first thing that I tell many of my patients is if your thirsty that is your body screaming at you saying hey, I need something else. Your body is wise and it’s telling you what it needs.” 

Things you can do to help regulate your body temperature are drink plenty of water, have a good fitness routine, eating a healthy diet full of vitamins and minerals, and dress lightly in the heat and in brighter colors not dark colors.

Warning signs that your body isn’t keeping up with the heat include:

• High body temperature above 103°F
• Red, hot, dry skin
• Inability to sweat
• Rapid pulse
• Headache
• Dizziness or fatigue
• Nausea or vomiting
• Disorientation
• Passing out

Anyone exhibiting more than one of these symptoms may be experiencing a heat stroke and should call 911 immediately.

If you believe you may have a heart condition you can find a Heart Risk Assessment with the Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center.