[Opinion] The Correlation Between Summer Heat and Heart Disease: Precautions for Acute Myocardial Infarction

Johan Jin, Chief of Cardiology.

According to recent statistics, the incidence of acute myocardial infarction is continuously increasing. Especially during the summer, the risk of acute myocardial infarction rises. This condition occurs when the blood supply to the heart is suddenly blocked, causing damage to the heart muscle that can lead to death. According to the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, the number of acute myocardial infarction patients in 2022 was 131,160, an increase of about 19.5% over five years. In the summer of 2021, the number of patients visiting hospitals due to acute myocardial infarction was 224,730 in June, which is the second highest figure after December.

The main cause of acute myocardial infarction in summer is the increased cardiovascular burden related to high temperatures. High temperatures increase the heart's workload to regulate body temperature, and as body fluids evaporate rapidly, the blood becomes thicker, increasing the likelihood of blood clot formation. If sufficient hydration is not maintained in hot weather, dehydration occurs, which destabilizes blood pressure and raises the risk of myocardial infarction. Additionally, sudden temperature changes between indoors and outdoors cause blood vessels to repeatedly constrict and dilate, placing significant stress on the heart. Excessive indoor air conditioning or abrupt temperature differences can cause blood flow stagnation, leading to blood clots.

Warning signs of acute myocardial infarction include sudden chest pain, difficulty breathing, cold sweat, dizziness and nausea, and extreme fatigue. Chest pain usually starts behind the sternum and can radiate to the arms, neck, jaw, or back, indicating a serious condition. If these symptoms appear, emergency medical services should be contacted immediately. The golden time for acute myocardial infarction is within two hours of onset, and receiving treatment within this period is crucial. Delayed initial response can lead to expanded heart muscle damage and serious aftereffects.

To prevent acute myocardial infarction during summer, several important measures should be practiced. First, adequate hydration is essential. Frequently drinking water to maintain body fluids and consuming beverages that replenish electrolytes is recommended. It is important to avoid large temperature differences between indoors and outdoors to reduce stress caused by body temperature changes. Regular aerobic exercise promotes cardiovascular health, but in hot weather, it is better to exercise during cooler times such as morning or evening. Avoid salty and greasy foods, and consume fresh fruits, vegetables, and high-fiber foods to maintain cardiovascular health. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption place a heavy burden on the cardiovascular system and should be avoided. For those with risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia, regular health check-ups are important for early detection and management.

Acute myocardial infarction in summer is largely preventable, and practicing small habits in daily life is important to achieve this. Since the risk of cardiovascular disease can increase due to hot weather, actively implementing the aforementioned preventive measures is necessary to protect health. Knowing the warning signs of acute myocardial infarction well and responding promptly when symptoms appear is the most important.

Cho Hwan-jin, Cardiologist, SMG Yonsei Hospital