Hot enough for ya? It may be too hot for your heart health!

With another stretch of hot weather predicted, the American Heart Association, a global force changing the future of heart health for all, is again issuing important warnings about taking extra precautions to stay safe in extremely high temperatures.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1,200 people die in the U.S. each year as a direct cause of extreme heat. That number is rising substantially, as is the number of people dying from heat-related cardiovascular disease. A study published in the American Heart Association’s flagship, peer-reviewed journal Circulation, predicts that cardiovascular disease deaths related to extreme heat may more than double over the next two decades.

Heat and dehydration cause the heart to work harder, putting it under significant stress.

Precautions to take during these hot days of summer to protect your heart health:

• Watch the clock: It’s best to avoid the outdoors in the early afternoon (about noon to 3 p.m.) because the sun is usually at its strongest, putting you at higher risk for heat-related illnesses.
• Dress for the heat: Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing in breathable fabrics such as cotton or a newer fabric that repels sweat. Add a hat and sunglasses. Before you get started, apply a water-resistant sunscreen with at least SPF 15, and reapply it every two hours.
• Drink up: Stay hydrated by drinking a few cups of water before, during, and after going outside or exercising. Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages.
• Take regular breaks: Find some shade or a cool place, stop for a few minutes, hydrate, and start again

It’s important to know the signs and symptoms when you may be experiencing too much heat.

Heart Health: Symptoms of heat exhaustion:

• Headaches
• Cool, pale, and moist skin
• Fast, weak pulse
• Dizziness and light-headedness
• Weakness or muscle cramps
• Nausea and vomiting
• Passing out

If you experience these symptoms, move to a cooler place, stop exercising, and cool down immediately by dousing yourself with cold water and rehydrating. You may need to seek medical attention.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency. If you experience these symptoms, call 9-1-1 and get medical attention right away.

Heart Health: Symptoms of heat stroke:

• High body temperature (103 degrees Fahrenheit or higher)
• Hot, red, dry, or damp skin
• Fast, strong pulse
• Headache, dizziness, and confusion
• Nausea
• Passing out

While being heart-smart in the heat, it’s still important to find ways for the whole family to stay active even during the high temperatures of summer. Try walking, swimming, biking, skating, jumping rope, building a backyard obstacle course, or organizing a neighborhood soccer game. Even gardening, pushing a stroller, or walking the dog counts. Adjusting your activity time to early morning or later in the evening can also help. If being outside is just too much on some days, find indoor locations where you can be active, such as a shopping mall, gym, or community recreation center.

Learn more about how heat can affect your heart health at heart.org.

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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X, or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.