As summer approaches, concerns about the adverse effects of heatwaves are beginning to surface across several regions of the country. While the human body is generally resilient and capable of adapting to changing temperatures, extreme heat can pose serious health risks—particularly to the heart and lungs.
Dr. Shraddha Gandhi, Consultant in the Emergency Department at Holy Family Hospital, Mumbai, shared insights in an interview with HT Lifestyle regarding how prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to life-threatening complications. “When temperatures exceed 103–104°F, the body’s ability to regulate its internal temperature can falter,” she explained, noting the potential for critical stress on vital organs.
How Heatwaves Affect the Heart
Dr. Gandhi highlighted that excessive heat can severely impact cardiovascular function. Among the primary concerns is heat stroke, which may cause blood pressure to drop dangerously, reducing the blood flow to essential organs. This can place significant strain on the heart, potentially leading to severe arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, or even ventricular fibrillation.
The doctor also pointed out that reduced circulation can damage heart muscle, and repeated instances of heat stroke may cause cardiac scarring over time. Overall, there is a heightened risk of developing serious cardiovascular conditions—including heart attacks, strokes, and chronic hypertension—during intense heatwaves.
Lung Health Under Threat
Individuals with existing respiratory conditions are particularly vulnerable to the effects of soaring temperatures. Dr. Gandhi noted that heatwaves often aggravate conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). “High temperatures can worsen asthma symptoms, especially in individuals with poorly controlled asthma,” she said. “COPD patients may experience increased shortness of breath, wheezing, and persistent coughing during heatwaves.”
She also warned about bronchospasms—sudden constrictions of the airways—caused by heat stress, which can make breathing difficult. In some cases, inflammation in the lungs triggered by extreme heat can lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and heat stroke has been identified as a risk factor for pneumonia, especially among the elderly and other vulnerable groups.
Safety Measures to Combat Heatwave Hazards
To minimize health risks during the summer, Dr. Gandhi recommends several precautionary steps:
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking adequate amounts of water helps thin mucus and keeps the respiratory system functioning effectively.
- Avoid Strenuous Activity: Physical exertion should be limited during the hottest parts of the day to reduce stress on both the heart and lungs.
- Monitor Symptoms: Individuals with chronic respiratory conditions should closely track their symptoms and seek medical care if they worsen.
- Immediate Cooling Measures: If symptoms of heat stroke arise, it’s critical to cool the body quickly using ice packs, intravenous cold saline (administered in a clinical setting), or by wearing light-colored, breathable clothing that covers the body.
As climate patterns continue to shift, experts warn that heatwaves may become more frequent and intense. It is therefore essential to raise awareness and take preventive action to safeguard public health during extreme weather events.