In hot weather, blood pressure drops in most healthy people, but those with heart and vascular disease may feel worse, cardiologist Evgeny Kokin said in an interview with Gazeta.Ru.
Kokin explained that in hot weather blood vessels widen so the body can release heat faster, which can slightly lower blood pressure. At the same time, the heart works harder, and if the body lacks fluid, the blood becomes thicker, adding further strain on the cardiovascular system.
Kokin said heat can trigger worsening symptoms in people with hypertension, coronary heart disease, heart failure or heart rhythm disorders.
Diet and hydration advice
The cardiologist advised limiting salt intake in summer and maintaining a proper drinking regimen. He said the diet should be based on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, low-fat fish, poultry and fermented dairy products, and recommended drinking water in small portions throughout the day, guided by thirst and physical activity levels.
Cardiologist Tamaz Gagloshvili previously named the most harmful diet for the heart in people with high cholesterol, saying a diet high in fat can be dangerous.
