Humidity Can Increase Risk Of Heart Attack

Orlando's hot, sticky summer weather can be uncomfortable and ruin a good hair day. But it can also have a more serious impact on your health.

Experts says that such things as high blood pressure, obesity and family history can increase your risk of a heart attack. Now, you may want to add humidity to that list.

"This Greek study found the humidity with in the last month, prior to the occurrence of the heart attack had some correlation for not really clear reasons, the higher the likelihood of heart attack," said Dr. Carlos Saenz, a cardiologist with the Florida Heart Group.

The study, published in the British Medical Journal," Heart," looked at heart-attack related deaths in Athens in 2001 and compared them to the weather.

While there has been a link between heart attacks and extreme hot or cold temperatures, this is the first study to link heart attacks with humidity.

Though Saenz said with the Florida Heart Group said people over 70 appear to be most at risk, he can't say if there's a clear link here in Central Florida.

"I don't think we can say we have noticed more or less, documented the higher the density the population suffering from heart attack in the summer," Saenz said.

Saenz said that during the summer months there is a tendency for perspiration, and with increased perspiration comes the risk of dehydration, which can lead to a heart attack.

Saenz said that is why it is important to stay hydrated and try to avoid extreme heat or cold.

"While indoors, try to make use of the air conditioner or heating devices," Saenz said.

source:www.cfnews13.com