As we battle the heatwave, few consider the hidden danger to the heart and circulatory system. Dr. Nieca Goldberg reveals how extreme heat can lead to a dangerous drop in blood pressure and put extra strain on the heart.
As we battle the summer heat and seek every possible way to cool down, few of us think about what is happening to our blood pressure in those moments. Cardiologist Dr. Nieca Goldberg from NYU Langone Health warns that prolonged exposure to high temperatures can have serious, even dangerous, consequences for heart and circulatory health.
While heart care is most often associated with diet and exercise, weather conditions play an equally important role. A scientific study published in 2024 in the journal Circulation Research confirmed a clear link between heat and increased cardiovascular mortality. According to the researchers' findings, each degree increase in temperature leads to a 2.1 percent rise in the mortality rate from these diseases.
Many people don't consider the impact of weather on the heart, but this connection is very real. Dr. Goldberg, who founded the Joan H. Tisch Center for Women's Health, explains that prolonged exposure to summer heat can lead to a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
"When the body overheats, blood vessels dilate to release heat. This can lead to a drop in blood pressure, especially if dehydration occurs due to sweating," she explained to Parade. Although lowering blood pressure might seem beneficial, such a drop caused by heat can be dangerous. "The level of change depends on the individual, and factors like body weight and fitness also play a role. Some may feel weakness or dizziness, especially when standing up suddenly or after prolonged time outdoors," she adds.
High temperatures not only reduce blood pressure but also increase the heart's workload, as it must pump harder to cool the body down. As a result, the pulse can rise faster than usual, even during activities that normally seem light. "Fluid loss through sweating can reduce blood volume, making it harder for the heart to pump," notes Dr. Goldberg. In patients with existing heart conditions, these changes can lead to symptoms such as chest pressure, shortness of breath, or fainting.
Dr. Goldberg emphasizes that individuals suffering from heart conditions, low blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, or kidney disease should be extremely cautious during heatwaves. The same applies to the elderly population.
"Older adults are at higher risk because their bodies don't regulate temperature as efficiently and they have a harder time recognizing early signs of heat exhaustion," she says. She also notes that certain medications, such as diuretics and some blood pressure regulators, can increase susceptibility to dehydration or make it harder for the body to adapt to high temperatures.
For proactive health care, Dr. Goldberg recommends prevention and preparation. "Plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day, drink plenty of fluids, wear light clothing, and rest in the shade or an air-conditioned space," she advises. For those with heart disease or other chronic conditions, she recommends consulting a doctor about safety measures during extreme heat and any potential adjustments to therapy.
It is also crucial to recognize signs that heat is adversely affecting the circulatory system. These include dizziness, weakness, extreme fatigue, heart palpitations, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, or fainting. "These symptoms should not be ignored, especially if you already have heart problems," the cardiologist warns.
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop the activity and move to a cool or air-conditioned place. "Drink water if you can, remove tight clothing, and rest. If symptoms don't improve quickly or you experience chest pain, persistent shortness of breath, confusion, or loss of consciousness, seek emergency medical help immediately," says Dr. Goldberg.
While chronically elevated blood pressure is harmful to the heart, a sudden drop or too-low blood pressure can be equally dangerous. You can ensure protection by drinking enough fluids and avoiding extreme heat whenever possible.
