Q: I've heart that exercising in the heat can be bad for my heart. Should I stop exercising during the summer?

A: The temperature has been high and many of us are enjoying outdoor activities including lawn care and exercise. As with most things in life, moderation and common sense should prevail as the temperature rises.

Our bodies have the ability to adapt to warm temperatures in two ways. First, blood vessels next to our skin dilate to send more blood flow to the surface of our bodies where the skin is cooler.

Secondly, our body self-cools by sweating and as the temperature and humidity continue to climb, these methods of self-cooling become less effective.

Replacing fluids lost through sweating is critical. Fluids lost through sweating result in lower blood volume. Excessive sweating can also cause a loss of important electrolytes which play an important role in maintaining heart rhythm. This can cause strain on the heart which especially for persons having a history of heart disease or risk factors for heart disease.

Persons being treated for congestive heart failure, abnormal heart rhythms, and chest pain should stay in cooler environments during hot summer days and remain well hydrated by drinking up to 8 glasses of water a day.

To avoid excessive stress on your heart and blood vessels remember the following tips:
• Stay well hydrated by drinking water and fluids. Avoid caffeine and alcohol as they can cause dehydration. On very hot and humid days, try to drink a glass of water every hour. Feeling thirsty is a delayed response to dehydration.
• Be aware of the symptoms of dehydration and heat stress such as nausea, dizziness, cold skin, irregular heartbeat, and cramping in the legs and stomach. Seek immediate hydration and cooling off as these symptoms can rapidly lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
• Avoid strenuous activity or exercise during the hottest part of the day especially when humidity is high. When you exercise, evening and early morning times are best.
• Choose smaller meals that don't make your digestive system work as hard.

For more information about heart health in the summer, contact Wooster Community Hospital's Heart Center at 330-263-8282.