Is high humidity in monsoon bad for heart patients?

High humidity can make you feel sticky and uncomfortable, but do you know it can also put extra strain on your heart? When the air is heavy with moisture, sweat doesn’t evaporate as easily, making it harder for your body to cool down. To regulate temperature, your heart has to pump more blood to the skin, increasing its workload. Add the risk of dehydration, which can thicken the blood and stress the cardiovascular system. These effects become even more serious, especially for people with existing heart conditions, high blood pressure, or older adults.

How does humidity affect the heart?

Humidity levels affect our bodies in ways that many people may not realise. Humidity and heart health are interconnected, as when the air is saturated with moisture, it disrupts the body’s natural ability to regulate temperature and fluid balance. This disruption can place additional strain on the heart, especially in vulnerable individuals. Here are some key ways that high humidity impacts heart health:

1. Blood pressure fluctuations

Humidity and heart health are closely linked. In humid conditions, blood vessels tend to relax. This can lead to a drop in blood pressure, potentially causing symptoms such as fatigue or dizziness, particularly in individuals taking antihypertensive medications. Conversely, shifting from a hot, humid environment to an air-conditioned space can cause blood vessels to constrict, leading to sudden spikes in blood pressure. This constant fluctuation can put considerable strain on the heart, especially for older adults or those with existing vascular issues, according to research published in StatPearls.

2. Increased stroke risk

The risk of stroke is elevated during the monsoon season, although this is not often discussed. Humidity and heart health also play a significant role during this time. Many people mistakenly believe they are well-hydrated simply because they do not feel thirsty. However, the body continues to lose fluids, albeit less noticeably. “Dehydration thickens the blood, slowing its circulation and increasing the likelihood of clot formation. This is particularly concerning for individuals with irregular heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation, or those with narrowed arteries,” Dr Sandeep Reddy Koppula tells Health Shots.

3. Fluid retention

“High humidity can exacerbate fluid retention, particularly for those with heart failure. Humidity and heart health are closely linked, as the body struggles to eliminate excess water, leading to swelling in the feet or legs and shortness of breath,” Dr Reddy adds. Some patients may suddenly notice weight gain over a short period of a few days. These signs, although they may seem minor, can indicate stress on the heart and warrant attention.

4. Dietary changes

Weather conditions often influence eating habits. During the monsoon, people usually gravitate towards easy-to-prepare snacks, which are typically fried or high in salt. Humidity can also impact heart health, as the body may struggle to regulate blood pressure in high humidity levels. Even slight increases in sodium intake can raise blood pressure and contribute to fluid retention, particularly for individuals on a restricted diet, as noted by The Nutrition Source.

Tips for managing heart health in high humidity

Fortunately, there are practical steps that can help mitigate the risks associated with high humidity:

• Monitor blood pressure: Regularly checking your blood pressure at home can help identify early changes in your blood pressure. Humidity and heart health are also important factors to consider, as high humidity can put additional stress on the heart. Aim to check your blood pressure at least once a week, especially if you have an existing heart condition, as recommended by the World Heart Federation.
• Weigh yourself daily: For individuals with heart failure, daily weight monitoring is required, says Dr Koppula. A sudden increase in weight can be an early sign of fluid retention. Additionally, humidity can impact heart health, as high humidity levels may exacerbate symptoms of heart failure and contribute to fluid retention.”
• Stay hydrated: Even in cooler weather, staying hydrated remains important. Humidity and heart health can play significant roles in hydration needs. However, the hydration needs of each person can vary, particularly for those with heart conditions. Always consult your doctor to determine the proper fluid intake for your situation, as recommended by The National Council on Ageing.
• Avoid sudden temperature changes: Transitioning rapidly between hot and cold environments can strain the cardiovascular system. Humidity and heart health are also important factors to consider, as high humidity can make it harder for the body to cool down. Maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and ensure good ventilation.
• Follow dietary advice: Pay attention to your diet, especially sodium intake. Humidity can also impact heart health, making it important to stay hydrated and aware of how weather conditions affect your body. It may be helpful to prepare meals that are heart-healthy and low in salt, as recommended by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.
• Consult your doctor: Never adjust medication doses on your own, even if future symptoms seem mild. Humidity and heart health can also play a significant role in your overall well-being, so it’s essential to consider all factors that affect your condition. Always consult a healthcare professional before making any decisions about your medication, as advised by the US Food & Drug Administration.

How to protect your heart in monsoon?

The transition into monsoon may bring relief from the heat. Still, heart patients need to remain vigilant about their health during this time of year, as humidity can significantly impact heart health. Understanding the signals your body sends is important:

• Watch for symptoms: Be alert for any sudden changes, such as increased swelling, shortness of breath, or fatigue. Humidity can also play a significant role in heart health, so it is important to monitor how you feel in different weather conditions. These symptoms should be addressed quickly.
• Maintain communication with healthcare providers: Regular check-ins with your doctor can help manage and adjust treatment plans as needed, while ensuring comprehensive monitoring of your heart health, including the impact of humidity on cardiovascular function.