Gilbert cardiologist warns triple-digit temperatures increase risks to heart

PHOENIX — With summer kicking into full gear, now more than ever health specialists are asking people to stay conscious of how to protect themselves and their heart in extreme heat.

Dr. Rachel Bond, a Gilbert cardiologist, said that higher temperatures cause your body to move more blood for cooling, placing more stress on your heart.

“When you have temperatures above 100 degrees, it actually can place a toll on your heart. So much so that it can double or even nearly triple your risk of having cardiovascular disease,” Bond told KTAR News 92.3 FM.

Bond, who sits on the board of the American Heart Association of Greater Phoenix, noted that proper hydration helps the heart pump blood more effectively to prevent issues from heat.

Those issues are not just limited to cardiovascular disease or dehydration.

“It can actually lead to a more severe form of stroke, so it tells us the importance of really being aware of our climate and doing measures to hopefully lower our overall body temperature,” she said.

Phoenix is coming off the hottest month of June ever recorded in Phoenix when temperatures regularly soared above 110 degrees.

The AHA recommends five ways to stay safe in extreme heat:

• Avoid going outside in the early afternoon when the sun is at its strongest.

• Wear light, breathable fabrics such as cotton as well as sunscreen, hats and sunglasses.

• Stay hydrated and avoid caffeine and alcohol.

• Find shade or cool places to take breaks.

• Take medications exactly as prescribed.

KTAR News 92.3 FM’s Ali Vetnar contributed to this report.

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