Summer has hit us with full force. High temperatures are a challenge for everyone. For stroke survivors and their loved ones, summer is a time of heightened awareness. That's why we turned to Prof. Darina Georgieva, a neurologist with extensive experience, for advice. Here's what she shared for Association for Stroke and Aphasia readers:
During the summer season, high air temperatures lead to an increased release of fluids through the skin of the body. This, in turn, predisposes to dehydration - dehydrates. As a result, the liquid component of the blood decreases, which becomes thicker; the rheology of the blood changes. The movement of blood in the blood vessels slows down, which is a prerequisite for the formation of thrombi and clogging of the vessels.
The increased excretion of fluids during the summer heat also leads to arterial hypotension - a decrease in arterial pressure.
High temperatures lead to a slight expansion (dilatation) of the entire circulatory system in the human body. With the same volume of blood, the pressure on the walls of the vessels decreases and, accordingly, a decrease in arterial pressure values is reported. For this reason, a large number of patients stop taking their antihypertensive medications on their own, which is a serious mistake. Antihypertensive therapy can be adjusted by a cardiologist, but it should not be stopped because the activity of the cardiovascular system is dynamic and changes during the day; changes according to emotions, physical loads, etc. Patients with arterial hypertension should be well informed and, if necessary, seek help from their cardiologist.
Therefore, during the Summer season, an adequate intake of liquids is necessary. It is recommended to drink at least 1.5-2 liters of water per day.
Particular attention should be paid to people in the risk group who have cerebral atherosclerosis (smokers - mostly men; elderly people). In a person with cerebral atherosclerosis and low fluid intake during the summer months, it is much more likely that a violation of cerebral blood circulation will occur.
Strong sunlight during summer days, especially during lunch hours, is an independent risk factor for people with arterial hypertension. Heating the head can lead to expansion of cerebral blood vessels, correspondingly redistribution of blood flow, which increases in the nervous system and decreases in peripheral tissues.
In these cases, the likelihood of a brain or heart attack is increased.
Going outdoors in the height of summer should be in the cooler parts of the day and preferably with a hat.
Avoid sun exposure immediately after a large meal.
Here are some more tips:
Do not go outside during the hottest hours of the day: between 11am and 4pm.
Drink more fluids - water, juices, iced tea, etc.
Don't overdo it with coffee.
Avoid ice cold and carbonated drinks, especially if you are prone to tachycardia.
Monitor blood pressure values. If your blood has erratic values, consult a doctor about what measures to take.
Stick to a light diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Avoid pork and sausages.
Be careful and cautious, but enjoy the summer. With increased attention, but also with a good mood - this is how we part with Prof. Georgieva. We thank her for her helpful advice and wish her fewer new cases during the summer days!
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