For individuals managing their heart health, the hot weather can pose significant challenges. Don’t let the heat sideline your summer fun! At AMS Cardiology, we understand the unique needs of adults when it comes to cardiovascular health.
Below, our cardiologists share five heart health tips to help you stay active, manage the heat effectively and protect your health throughout the season.
- Get Active, Stay Safe: Regular exercise is a cornerstone of heart health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week or 75 minutes of vigorous activity. Walking, swimming, and cycling are all excellent options. However, during the summer, adjust your exercise routine to avoid the hottest part of the day. Opt for early morning or evening workouts when temperatures are cooler.
- Beat the Heat With Hydration: Dehydration can significantly impact your heart health. As you sweat more in the heat, your body loses fluids and electrolytes increasing your heart rate and blood pressure. Make water your go-to summer companion! Carry a refillable water bottle with you throughout the day and sip frequently, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Dress for Success: Loose-fitting, breathable clothing in light colors helps regulate body temperature. Choose natural fabrics like cotton or linen that allow for sweat evaporation. When outdoors, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
- Know Your Limits: Listen to your body! Don’t push yourself too hard during exercise, especially in the heat. Signs of heat exhaustion include dizziness, fatigue, nausea and headache. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop exercising immediately, move to a cool shaded area and rehydrate.
- Schedule Regular Checkups With Your Cardiologist: Early detection and management of heart conditions are crucial for maintaining good health. At AMS Cardiology, we offer comprehensive cardiac care including services tailored to the specific needs of seniors such as:
- Echocardiography: This painless ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of your heart, allowing doctors to assess its structure and function.
- Electrophysiology: This specialized area focuses on heart rhythm problems, like atrial fibrillation (AFib). We offer various diagnostic and treatment options for aFib including pacemaker implantation if needed.
- Interventional Cardiology: For some heart conditions, minimally invasive procedures performed by our skilled cardiologists may be necessary.
- Preventative Cardiology: We are passionate about helping seniors prevent heart disease. If you’re wondering how to increase heart health, we can discuss some lifestyle changes you can make!
- Cardiac Rehabilitation: Our cardiac rehab program provides personalized exercise and education to help you recover from a heart event and improve your overall cardiovascular health.
How to Increase Heart Health With AMS Cardiology
By following these tips and scheduling regular checkups with your local cardiologist, you can enjoy a safe and active summer. At AMS Cardiology, we are dedicated to providing our patients with the highest quality personalized cardiac care. Schedule an appointment today and let our experienced team help you keep your heart healthy all year long.
