Summer in El Paso often brings temperatures well above 100°F, and while anyone can be affected by extreme heat, people living with heart disease or diabetes face additional risks that aren’t always obvious.
High temperatures place extra stress on the body. That’s why your heart has to work harder to keep you cool, and dehydration can make it more difficult to regulate blood sugar levels. Knowing how heat affects these conditions can help prevent serious complications during the hottest months of the year.
Why Heat Is Hard on the Heart
Your body naturally tries to cool itself by increasing blood flow to the skin and producing sweat. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), this process forces the heart to pump harder than usual, especially during periods of extreme heat or high humidity.
For people with heart disease, high blood pressure, or heart failure, that extra workload can increase the risk of heat exhaustion, dehydration, and other heat-related illnesses.
Some heart medications, including diuretics and certain blood pressure medications, can also affect the body’s ability to stay hydrated or regulate temperature. Patients should never stop taking prescribed medications but should talk with their healthcare provider if they have concerns about exercising or spending time outdoors during extreme heat.
Heat Can Make Diabetes More Difficult to Manage
People with diabetes also need to take extra precautions during the summer.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) explains that dehydration can cause blood sugar levels to become more concentrated, making glucose harder to control. At the same time, high blood sugar causes the body to lose more fluids through urination, creating a cycle that can worsen dehydration.
Heat can also affect insulin, glucose monitors, and other diabetes supplies. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends storing insulin according to the manufacturer’s instructions and avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or excessive heat, which can reduce its effectiveness.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Don’t ignore symptoms that may indicate your body is struggling with the heat.
Seek medical attention if you experience:
- Chest pain or pressure.
- Shortness of breath that is new or worsening.
- Dizziness or fainting.
- Confusion.
- Rapid heartbeat.
- Severe weakness.
- Hot, dry skin or a body temperature above 103°F.
According to the CDC, heat stroke is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment.
Stay Healthy All Summer Long
Managing heart disease or diabetes doesn’t stop when temperatures rise. Taking steps to stay hydrated, avoid overheating and monitor your health can help reduce the risk of heat-related complications.
At University Medical Center of El Paso, patients have access to primary care and specialty services that help manage chronic conditions throughout the year. If you have heart disease, diabetes, or other ongoing health concerns, talking with your healthcare provider before periods of extreme heat can help you stay healthy and enjoy summer safely.
It is important to monitor your health regularly to prevent, detect, and manage potential risks. At University Medical Center, our health professionals are here to support your overall well-being. Call (915) 521-7979 today to schedule an appointment or visit umcelpaso.org to learn more.
