Extreme Heat Can Cut Safe Sun Exposure to 10 Minutes for Heart Patients
Updated
Updated · KSLTV · Jun 10
Extreme Heat Can Cut Safe Sun Exposure to 10 Minutes for Heart Patients
1 articles · Updated · KSLTV · Jun 10
Summary
Dr. Miroslaw Sochanski said high temperatures force the heart to work harder, raising risks for people with heart conditions, especially older adults whose bodies are less able to handle heat stress.
10 to 15 minutes in the sun may be enough to cause problems for some people on heart drugs, he said, citing diuretics, blood-pressure medicines, statins and antiarrhythmics that can increase heat sensitivity.
Hydration is a key defense, but Sochanski warned that sugary drinks and caffeinated beverages such as soda and coffee can worsen dehydration instead of relieving it.
electrolytes matter alongside water because sweating depletes both fluid and salt, he said, making awareness of age, medical condition and medications central to staying safe in extreme heat.