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What is the story about?
As
India experiences intense heatwaves linked to the El Nino effect, doctors are warning of a growing but under-recognised threat - rising cardiovascular stress. With temperatures soaring close to 45°C in many regions across the country, the body’s natural cooling mechanisms can unintentionally place significant strain on the heart, especially among vulnerable populations. “High levels of heat pose a challenge to the cardiovascular system, particularly when temperatures rise to around 45°C. In the process of maintaining internal temperature balance, the body inadvertently creates unfavorable conditions for heart health,” said Dr. Abhijit Khadtare, Cardiologist at Ruby Hall Clinic.
How does extreme heat impact your heart?
When exposed to high temperatures, your body works hard to maintain its internal temperature. One of the primary ways it does this is by increasing blood flow to the skin to release heat. While this helps cool the body, it forces the heart to pump harder and faster, increasing cardiovascular workload. At the same time, excessive sweating leads to dehydration, one of the biggest risk factors during extreme heat. According to Dr. Khadtare, as the body loses fluids, blood becomes more concentrated - a condition known as hemoconcentration. This thickening of blood slows circulation and increases the likelihood of clot formation. “Dehydration is one of the main challenges that arise during this process. As a result of the loss of fluids, there occurs an increase in red blood cell concentration,” he said.Also read: Flight Warning: Cross-Legged Sitting May Cause Dangerous Blood Clots, Deep Vein ThrombosisThe dangerous chain reaction
Dehydration doesn’t just reduce fluid levels; it also affects blood chemistry. Experts explain that fluid loss can trigger platelet activation, making blood more prone to clotting. Combined with slower circulation, this creates a higher risk of clots forming in critical areas such as the heart - the coronary arteries, or brain - cerebral arteries. “These factors combined slow down blood circulation in small vessels and increase the risk of blood clotting in coronary or cerebral arteries,” said the doctor. This can potentially lead to life-threatening conditions like heart attacks or strokes, particularly in individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular disease.Why heatwaves are riskier than you think?
Extreme heat places a dual burden on the body:Increased cardiac workload
The heart must pump more blood to regulate body temperatureDrop in blood pressure
Heat causes blood vessels to dilate (vasodilation), which can reduce blood pressure and limit blood flow to vital organsElectrolyte imbalance
Loss of sodium and potassium through sweat can disrupt the heart rhythm For people with hypertension, heart disease, or diabetes, these changes can be particularly dangerous.Who is most at risk?
While anyone can be affected, certain groups face a higher risk during heatwaves:- Older adults
- Those battling heart disease or high blood pressure
- Those with type 2 diabetes
- Outdoor workers are exposed to prolonged heat
- People who are dehydrated or who skip meals
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