How Heatwaves Harm Your Heart: The Hidden Danger You Didn’t See Coming

 

🌡️ Heat Alert from Taiwan's Ministry of Environment: This "Silent Killer" Is Attacking Your Blood Vessels During Heatwaves

As global warming accelerates, extreme weather becomes more common. Winters last longer, and summer heat intensifies year after year. In response, Taiwan’s Ministry of Environment recently launched a “High Temperature Adaptation Alliance” to fight against the growing threat of heat-related illnesses.

But what exactly can high summer temperatures do to our bodies? And how can we stay cool and safe during the scorching season?

📈 Sharp Rise in Heat-Related Illnesses in Taiwan

According to Taiwan's Ministry of Health and Welfare, summer is the peak season for heat-related injuries. In 2023, July alone saw 1,204 reported cases. Alarmingly, as of the end of May this year (2024), 436 people had already sought medical help for heat illnesses — a 1.6x increase compared to the same period last year.

To combat this worrying trend, the government is actively:

• Creating Cool Maps for public awareness
• Launching heat emergency drills
• Promoting heatwave response strategies across government, industry, and academia

🧠 Heat Isn’t Just Uncomfortable — It Can Double Your Risk of Stroke

We often think of heatstroke or sunburn, but extreme heat carries deeper, more dangerous health risks.

A recent study from Taiwan’s National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences revealed that extremely high temperatures can double the risk of ischemic stroke.

🔬 When the temperature exceeds 35°C or spikes 6–16°C within 1–2 days, blood becomes more viscous due to dehydration. This increases the risk of ischemic cardiovascular events, including stroke.

💥 Types of Heat-Related Illnesses

The Ministry of Health categorizes heat-related illnesses into four types:

1. Heat Cramps
   Caused by electrolyte imbalance from heavy sweating without replacing minerals. Common in the legs, arms, and thighs.
2. Heat Syncope (Fainting)
   Prolonged standing in heat causes blood to pool in extremities, reducing brain blood flow. May lead to fainting.
3. Heat Exhaustion
   Signs include heavy sweating, dizziness, fatigue, pale skin, and low blood pressure. If untreated, it can lead to heatstroke.
4. Heatstroke
   The most severe form, often affecting seniors, children, or outdoor workers. Core body temperature may exceed 40°C, causing confusion, shock, organ failure, and possibly death (30–80% mortality rate).

✅ 3 Simple Tips to Beat the Heat

To stay safe in hot weather, focus on three key areas:

• Dress Smart
  Wear light-colored, breathable, sweat-wicking clothes.
• Hydrate Often
  Drink at least 2,000cc of water daily. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty. People with kidney or heart conditions should consult their doctors for guidance.
• Stay Alert
  Follow weather forecasts and avoid outdoor activities between 10 AM and 2 PM. Elderly people and young children should stay indoors during peak heat hours.

If symptoms like dry red skin, high body temperature, dizziness, or rapid heartbeat occur, seek shade, cool down, rehydrate, and call for medical help if needed.

🚨 Who Is Most at Risk?

The six high-risk groups for heatstroke include:

• Seniors aged 65 and above
• Infants and young children
• People with chronic illnesses
• Outdoor workers and athletes
• Individuals with obesity
• People on medications like blood pressure or anticholinergic drugs

☀️ Final Reminder

Summer is getting hotter — don’t underestimate the danger. Understanding how heat affects your body could save your life. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay informed.