When temperatures rise, the risk of heart attacks also increases. A recent lab experiment has shed light on how heat waves can lead to ischemia and potential heart attacks, highlighting the urgent need for global efforts to combat long-term warming.
The study exposed participants to progressively higher temperatures, demonstrating that even mild heat exposure while at rest can cause the heart to work harder. This increased blood flow through the hearts of both healthy young and older individuals, but it revealed narrowed passages in one-third of older participants with pre-existing coronary artery disease.
Dr. Erica Spatz, a cardiologist and epidemiologist from Yale University, emphasized the vulnerability of older individuals with heart disease to extreme weather changes. She stressed the importance of understanding the risks posed by climate change and the need to protect the most vulnerable populations.
The experiment involved three groups of participants wearing specially designed wetsuits that gradually increased their core body temperature. The findings indicated that high temperatures can strain the heart and impair its ability to function properly, particularly in individuals with existing heart conditions.
Dr. Daniel Gagnon, the senior author of the study, highlighted the significance of the results in understanding how heat exposure impacts heart health. The research showed that individuals with coronary artery disease may experience ischemia during heat exposure, potentially leading to serious cardiac events.
The study’s implications extend beyond the laboratory setting, especially as global temperatures continue to rise. Dr. Gagnon emphasized the importance of protecting individuals, particularly those with heart disease, from the adverse effects of heat waves.
Dr. Joel Kaufman, a primary care physician and environmental sciences professor, praised the study for providing a physiological explanation for the correlation between high heat and heart problems. He underscored the need to address the risks of heat exposure, especially for individuals with coronary artery disease.
Moving forward, experts recommend better education and awareness about the risks of heat exposure, particularly for older individuals with heart conditions. Hydration, appropriate clothing, air conditioning, and staying indoors during extreme heat are essential measures to protect vulnerable populations.
As the world faces increasing temperatures and more frequent heat waves, understanding the impact on heart health becomes crucial. The study’s findings highlight the urgent need to prioritize the well-being of individuals with heart disease during extreme weather conditions.