Impact Of Monsoon On Heart Health: A Cardiothoracic Surgeon's Guide To Homecare

The heart is the engine of our circulatory system. It is more than just a vital organ in sustaining life and that’s why it needs special attention throughout all seasons. As the monsoon is bringing significant changes to the weather, it has its own set of challenges - viral, bacterial and fungal infections due to humidity in the air. High humidity fluctuates temperature that further puts strain on the heart. 

Similarly, the monsoon season can have several effects on heart patients with chronic cardiac diseases. It can have several repercussions on the cardio health, if you make compromises with your lifestyle including diet, exercise routine or irregularity in blood pressure checkups. Hence, it is imperative to understand how monsoon influences heart health and necessary measures that can help prevent heart illnesses. 

Fluctuations in temperature

Temperature plays a critical role in maintaining blood pressure in the body. It has a direct impact on the heart as when monsoon rains bring high humidity, the body starts dehydrating, causing blood to thicken. This increases the load on heart functioning, raising blood pressure among patients with cardiovascular history. Additionally, high humidity can impact the body’s ability to regulate temperature. This leads to more stress and strain on the cardiovascular system, particularly challenging those with existing conditions. 

Increased risk of infections

The monsoon rains increase the risks of infections such as respiratory infections, dengue, malaria and even waterborne diseases. This can add more vulnerabilities to the heart patients’ health, worsening the existing conditions even more. Subsequently, it increases the chances of complications such as myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle). To combat such situations, heart patients must focus on increasing their immunity such as by adding a nutrient rich diet and keeping their body hydrated. This can possibly reduce the risk of infections as well as help the body make more antibodies to fight against infections. 

Retention of fluid

Fluid buildup in heart patients is common. As monsoon begins, the risks of fluid retention in the body also increases, leading to swelling in ankles, legs, bloating, etc. The tendency to hold fluid increases in the body more during humid conditions that can be a negative sign for a healthy heart. Experiencing shortness of breath, fatigue and discomfort can be a few symptoms of fluid retention in heart patients. The best way to manage it is by keeping a track on your body weight and avoiding food that can cause high water retention such as salty or fried snacks, processed food, rice or bread. Instead, replace them with healthy fats such as avocado and green vegetables. 

Take healthy diet

Salt intake is the foremost thing that impacts cardio health. During monsoon, people have the tendency to consume salty and deep fried snacks with their tea like fritters. This can contribute to fluid retention as well as increased blood pressure. Since heart patients are sensitive to changes, excessive salt can exacerbate hypertension or even heart failure. Thus, it is important to avoid food or drinks that can lead to gastric issues or conditions that can dehydrate the body or stress heart function. 

Lack of physical activity

Rain during monsoon season often affects outdoor activities. Heart patients who are usually advised to be regular with their walking routine in fresh air can face complexities in keeping up with their physically active lifestyle. This is known as a sedentary lifestyle that increases the risk of blood clots and is particularly dangerous for the heart. Hence, it is necessary to focus on slow walks on a treadmill or adopting a routine to practice light weighted exercises at home that can help you maintain a healthy body weight. 

Key precautions for heart patients, especially during monsoon

• Monitor Blood Pressure Regularly

• Stay Hydrated

• Avoid Salty and Processed Foods

• Exercise Indoors

• Take Precautions Against Infections

• Follow Medication Routines

• Regular Health Check-Ups

Our country is dominated by the southwest summer monsoon which is highly humid and gradually sweeps across the country. During this period, it is essential for heart patients, especially those with existing conditions and elderly to take good care of themselves. By being aware of critical factors and associated risks, one can minimise potential risks and manage to maintain a healthy heart. 

The author is Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgeon, Apollo Hospitals

Dr. A G K Gokhale

Guest Author Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgeon, Apollo Hospitals.