Skip to main content
Heart Health

Guard your heart during the dog days of summer

Print This Page

Heat, humidity, and haze can put stress on the cardiovascular system. People who have or are at risk for heart disease should drink plenty of water and be careful when exercising outdoors during hot, humid weather. Those who sweat a great deal might consider consuming sports drinks, which contain electrolytes to replenish the minerals they lose when sweating. People who take blood pressure medications (especially diuretics) should ask their doctor about possibly adjusting their dosage on days when they are outside in the heat.

To continue reading this article, you must log in.

Source matters. Subscribe to HarvardHealthOnline+ FREE for 30 days for unlimited access to the site – where all content is reviewed by an HMS physician or faculty expert.

With HHO+ you get these exclusive benefits:

  • Unlimited access to all Harvard Health Online content
  • 4 expertly curated newsletters delivered monthly
  • Customized website experience aligned to your health goals
  • In-depth health guides on topics like sleep, exercise, and more
  • Interactive features like videos and quizzes
  • Members-only access to exclusive articles and resources

SPECIAL OFFER! UNLOCK EXPERT ACCESS for 30 days FREE!

Already a member? Login ».

Print This Page

Disclaimer:

As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

Free Healthbeat Signup

Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!

Sign Up