A doctor has urged people not to overlook key symptoms that may be linked to the heart (Image: Getty)
A cardiologist has identified five warning signs that people in Britain should not simply write off as a reaction to hot weather. As temperatures remain high across parts of the UK this week, the specialist cautioned that extreme heat can place added pressure on the heart.
Dr Francesco Lo Monaco, a private cardiologist based in London, said: “Your heart normally pumps around five litres of blood a minute. In a severe heatwave it may need to pump close to 10. That’s a huge extra demand on the cardiovascular system.”
During very hot conditions, blood vessels expand, the heart works harder and blood flow to the skin increases as the body tries to cool itself down. Sweating can also cause a loss of fluids and electrolytes, which may make it more difficult to maintain steady blood pressure and circulation.
Dr Lo Monaco added: “While the heat doesn’t create heart problems from nothing, it can trigger them.” He urged people to be alert to five symptoms that should always be taken seriously.
Very high temperatures may increase the risk of heart-related problems (Image: Getty)
Chest pain
Although many people may be inclined to blame discomfort on the heat, Dr Lo Monaco said some symptoms should never be dismissed so easily.
“Chest pain in hot weather should never be brushed off – it needs to be checked out straight away as it could be a sign of something more serious,” he said.
Severe breathlessness
It’s common to feel worse than usual on hot days, but one symptom in particular is too often waved away. Dr Lo Monaco said: “Breathlessness is often something people dismiss as feeling the heat, but it should never be ignored.”
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Strong or irregular palpitations
A pounding heart might feel like a normal reaction to soaring temperatures, but Dr Lo Monaco explained that it can be a red flag. “If your heart feels like it’s pounding, racing or beating irregularly, that’s not something to wait out,” he said.
Confusion
It’s a symptom rarely associated with the heart, but it shouldn’t be overlooked, particularly in older or vulnerable people. Dr Lo Monaco said: “Confusion is often missed, but it’s a serious warning sign.”
Collapse or fainting
Some people assume fainting in hot weather is simply the body’s way of coping, but Dr Lo Monaco said: “This is your body telling you something has gone seriously wrong with your circulation. It should always be treated as a medical emergency.”
How to stay safe
Some simple measures can help significantly reduce risk of heart-related problems. Dr Lo Monaco said: “My best advice is to avoid being outdoors during the hottest time of day, staying in cool environments as often as possible, wearing light clothing, regularly drinking fluids and avoiding alcohol.”
He continued: “Many people think of heatwaves as just an inconvenience, but for the heart they can place significant physiological stress on the body. Recognising the warning signs and staying well hydrated can make all the difference, especially for those with existing heart conditions.”
The NHS says you must call 999 if:
- You have chest pain that feels tight or like squeezing on your chest
- You have chest pain that’s spreading to your arms, neck or jaw
- You’re having severe difficulty breathing – you’re gasping, choking or not able to get words out
- Your lips or skin are pale, blue or grey – on brown or black skin this may be easier to see on the palms of the hands
- Someone has passed out and is not responding normally
