Heat Increases Blood Viscosity, Raising Cardiovascular Risks, Doctor Warns

Cardiologist Dr. Anastasia Puskakalova stated that blood becomes thicker in hot weather, which imposes additional stress on the heart and blood vessels.

She clarified that summer itself does not directly cause increased blood viscosity; rather, insufficient fluid intake combined with excessive sweating reduces blood plasma volume. This reduction results in a higher concentration of red and white blood cells as well as platelets. Such changes may elevate the risk of clot formation, potentially leading to serious complications like stroke.

Dr. Puskakalova advised elderly individuals, patients with coronary artery disease, hypertension, and diabetes to closely monitor their health during hot weather conditions.

She emphasized the importance of maintaining fluid balance to prevent dehydration, recommending drinking clean water and consuming no less than 1.5 liters daily during heat periods.

According to the doctor, early signs of dehydration include thirst, dry mouth, reduced urination, dark-colored urine, weakness, dizziness, and muscle cramps.

To avoid dehydration, she suggested keeping the body well-hydrated, increasing consumption of water-rich fruits and vegetables, avoiding direct sun exposure, and refraining from strenuous physical activity during peak heat hours whenever possible.