Circulatory Problems in the Heat: Tips To Help You

In summer, it is sometimes so hot that people of any age experience circulatory problems. The reason for this is that when the body is exposed to a lot of heat, it loses fluid quickly and threatens to dry out. Minerals are lost in the process, to which the body reacts with circulatory problems, such as dizziness, nausea and vomiting. But there are tips to help manage circulatory problems in the heat.

When the heat is too much of a burden

Heat and high humidity trigger severe stress in the body. Other risk factors include inappropriate clothing, a lack of fluids and physical activity. Excessive physical activity is a great strain on the heart and circulation in very high temperatures. Therefore, circulatory problems are not uncommon in hot weather. The body suffers from fluid loss and heat accumulation in high temperatures. Especially elderly people, patients with cardiovascular diseases and weak veins are at risk. But even young and healthy people should not underestimate high temperatures. In high heat, the blood vessels dilate, which leads to physical discomfort. Blood pools in the legs, so the brain receives less oxygen. The blood pressure can no longer be maintained. It drops, causing the circulatory problems, for example, dizzy spells, headaches to fainting.

Drink enough and rest

To prevent circulatory problems that can result from the heat, all outdoor activities should be avoided. It is advisable to find a place in the shade and make sure to drink enough. In summer, this should be two to three liters a day. Water, unsweetened teas or fruit juice spritzers are well suited. This makes it possible to compensate for the loss of fluids at high outdoor temperatures and to avoid circulatory problems. Coffee, black tea and alcohol should be avoided, as these drinks put additional strain on the circulation. After drinking alcohol, the blood vessels dilate even more than they already do in hot weather. This means that even smaller amounts of blood are available to the circulatory system. The body also loses more fluids and minerals. If you feel listless, wraps made of wet, cooling cloths are a good way to bring the body temperature back down. However, the body should not be completely covered, otherwise the air will no longer contribute to cooling. If you have circulation problems, it is also helpful to put your legs up or spray your face and body with cold water, as this will help to boost your circulation.

Pay attention to fluid balance

A balanced water balance is the most important requirement in the heat for the entire body to function, because water is the main component of all cells and body fluids. It acts as a transport and cooling agent, protects against evaporation and overheating, and thus prevents circulatory problems. A loss of fluid can lead to serious health problems within a few days, such as dizziness, weakness, thickening of the blood and even unconsciousness. With a persistent lack of water, the body is no longer able to adequately eliminate urinary substances from the body. This results in circulatory and renal failure. If the body feels a thirsty sensation, this indicates that there is already a fluid deficiency. Sweating, a physical activity, dry air, fever and diarrhea increase the need for fluids. To prevent dehydration, it is important to drink enough fluids. Signs of fluid deficiency include dry mouth, headache, rising body temperature, constipation, and sagging skin. It is important to drink regularly throughout the day and not wait until the evening to make up for the fluid loss that has occurred.

Alternating showers and foot baths can help

If it becomes unbearable on hot days, foot baths with cold water can be a good help to strengthen the circulation. After the feet are placed in the cold foot bath, over time, you will feel the body slowly cool down, which at the same time also improves the feeling of well-being. The feet should be left in the cold water for 10-20 minutes.The effect can be further enhanced if, in addition to the feet, the lower legs are also covered with the cold water. Of course, care must be taken to find a suitable place so that the sun does not heat up the water too quickly and thereby prevent a cooling effect. People with a weak cardiovascular system should start slowly and with slightly less cold water. Alternating showers stimulate blood circulation and thus also prevent circulatory problems. The entire body does not necessarily have to be showered off. It is often sufficient to spray the upper arms with the water, alternating between cold and warm. At the end, the water should be cold.

Listen to the signals of the body

In the heat, it is important to avoid overexertion and not to put additional strain on the circulation through physical activities or sports. As temperatures rise, the risk of circulatory collapse and sunstroke increases. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid overexposure to the heat. It is also important to listen to the signals that the body gives. In case of a dry mouth, listlessness, headache, dizziness or cramps in the arms or legs, it is high time to go to the shade or a darkened room, lie down, put your legs up and drink water. If the condition does not improve, a doctor must be notified.