- Extreme heat strains the heart, especially in those with existing conditions.
- Dr. Sochanski emphasizes awareness of age, medications and hydration for heart health.
- Certain drinks and medications increase heat sensitivity, posing additional risks.
SALT LAKE CITY — Summer heat isn’t just uncomfortable — it can be dangerous, especially for people living with heart conditions. Dr. Miroslaw Sochanski of CommonSpirit Health recently broke down why high temperatures put extra strain on the heart and what everyone, especially older adults and those on heart medications, should keep in mind.
Heat makes the heart work harder
Sochanski explained that rising temperatures trigger a chain reaction in the body.
“When the heat goes up, usually our body temperature goes up … and then it tends to (make) our heart work harder, and the heart speeds up, and then it starts to have a cascade of problems if we’re not conditioned,” he said.
He emphasized that age plays a major role in vulnerability…