Summer and heart attack are correlated as the summer season can have certain factors that may potentially affect heart health and increase the risk of heart attacks in some individuals. However, it is good to note that this correlation doesn’t essentially imply any direct connection. While some studies have found a higher incidence of heart attacks during the summer months, it is essential to consider other variables at play.

Factors Contributing to Higher Chances of Heart Attacks during summers

Some factors may contribute to a higher incidence of heart attacks during the summer, it is important to remember that individual susceptibility varies, and many other factors, such as pre-existing medical conditions, lifestyle choices, and genetic predisposition, play a significant role in determining an individual’s heart health.

• Heat & dehydration: High temperatures during the summer can lead to dehydration & electrolyte imbalances, which can strain the cardiovascular system. Dehydration may cause a drop in blood volume, leading to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, potentially triggering heart problems.
• Physical activity: People tend to engage in more outdoor activities & exercises during the summer months. Sudden or excessive physical exertion, especially for individuals who are sedentary or have underlying heart conditions, can increase the risk of heart attacks, particularly in those who are not accustomed to intense exercise.
• Air pollution: Summer months can be associated with increased levels of air pollution, such as smog and ozone, especially in the urban areas. Exposure to air pollution has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular events, including heart attacks.
• Dietary habits: People often consume different types of foods & beverages during the summer months, such as barbecued meats, processed snacks, sugary drinks, and alcoholic beverages. These dietary choices, when consumed in excess or as part of an unhealthy overall diet, can contribute to an increased risk of heart problems.
• Travel and vacations: Summers happen to be a quite popular time for vacations & travel. Long journeys, particularly by air, can involve prolonged sitting, which can increase the risk of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis) and cardiovascular complications.

Ways of Protecting the Heart from Scorching Heat during summers

Summer and heart attack are interrelated. During the summer months, you can undertake the following practices in order to protect your heart from the harsh effects of the summer heat:

• Know the symptoms: It is important to be aware of the symptoms of heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke or heat exhaustion. These can include dizziness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, headache, confusion, and fainting. If you have been experiencing any such symptoms, then it is advisable to seek immediate medical intervention.
• Be high on H2O, but not on alcohol: Staying hydrated is crucial during hot summer days. Drink a good amount of water and other liquids all through the day to replenish fluids that are lost from your body through sweating. It is a no-brainer that these fluids do not imply alcohol, as its consumption can inversely contribute to dehydration.
• Keep yourself cool: Find ways to stay cool during the hot summer weather. Try to stay indoors most of the time in air-conditioned spaces. If, unfortunately, you do not have air conditioning, you can use fans, take cold showers or baths, or visit public places with air conditioning, such as libraries, malls, or community centres.
• Monitor your medicines: Some medications can affect how your body handles heat. If you are taking any kind of medications, consult your treating doctor or pharmacist to understand if they have any heat-related side effects. Follow their advice on adjusting dosages or taking extra precautions during hot weather.
• Watch your plate: Opt for light, easily digestible meals during the hot summer days. Include plenty of fruits & veggies in your diet, as they contain water & essential nutrients. Avoid heavy, fatty, or spicy foods that can make you feel sluggish and increase your body heat.
• Watch the clock: Schedule outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day, such as early mornings or late evenings.
• Watch your clothes: Dress in lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-coloured clothing that allows your body to breathe and helps reflect sunlight.
• Exercise smartly: Regular exercise is important for heart as well as brain health but adjust your routine to the summer heat. Engage in physical activities during cooler times of the day or choose indoor exercises. If you exercise outdoors, do so in shaded areas, drink plenty of water, and listen to your body’s signals to avoid overexertion.
• Take care of each other: Check on family members, friends, & neighbours, especially those who may be more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses, such as older adults or individuals with chronic health conditions. Encourage them to stay cool, hydrated, and seek medical help if needed.

A Worthy Interventional Cardiologist in Abu Dhabi

Therefore, now you know how summer and heart attack are co-related. Therefore, it is quite crucial to take better care of your heart health during the summer season. Also, remember, the tips mentioned above are general guidelines, and it will be good for you to consult with Doctor for personalized advice based on your specific health conditions and needs. If you have concerns about your heart health or any specific symptoms, it would be better to consult with the cardiologist as he/she can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status. Interventional cardiology happens to be the specialized cardiology field that tends to focus on the diagnosis & treatment of cardiovascular diseases with the help of minimally invasive medical procedures. These procedures often involve catheters and other small instruments that are guided through blood vessels to treat various heart conditions, such as blocked arteries, heart valve problems, and congenital heart defects.

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If you’re expecting and your due date falls during the summer or early fall in Abu Dhabi, taking care of your well-being can be a challenge, especially in the hot temperatures. Dr. Mrudhula Peta, a renowned gynecology specialist at LLH Hospital Musaffah, understands the unique needs of pregnant women in Abu Dhabi and shares valuable tips to ensure a safe and comfortable summer pregnancy experience.

How Does Summer Heat Affect Pregnancy in Abu Dhabi?

When the summer heat soars in Abu Dhabi, it’s crucial to be aware of how it can impact your pregnancy. Dr. Mrudhula Peta emphasizes that maintaining a normal body temperature is vital for pregnant women. When a pregnant woman’s body temperature exceeds 102.2 degrees Fahrenheit, she faces a higher risk of heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and dehydration. Additionally, inadequate fluid intake can lead to Braxton Hicks contractions (uterine tightening) and fainting spells, posing potential complications to the unborn baby.

Can Hot Weather Affect the Unborn Baby?

In Abu Dhabi’s summer months, pregnant women need to be cautious as the hot weather can pose risks to the unborn baby. Dr. Mrudhula Peta highlights two significant concerns:

1. Dehydration: Staying hydrated is crucial to avoid dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting, which can harm both the mother and the baby. During the late second and early third trimesters, a fall resulting from dehydration can lead to amniotic fluid loss. Moreover, dehydration triggers the production of vasopressin, which can cause “false” uterine contractions known as Braxton Hicks contractions. Remaining dehydrated during contractions can reduce blood volume and blood pressure, potentially leading to preterm labor.
2. Hyperthermia: Hyperthermia refers to abnormally high body temperature levels. Early pregnancy hyperthermia can increase the risk of congenital issues in the unborn child, particularly neural tube defects like spina bifida. It’s important to note that this risk is primarily limited to the first eight weeks of pregnancy. Beyond that period, spikes in body temperature are unlikely to cause congenital concerns.

Achieving a Safe and Comfortable Summer Pregnancy in Abu Dhabi: 

To optimize your summer pregnancy experience in Abu Dhabi, Our maternity doctors’ recommends the following tips:

1. Take a Swim: Cooling off in the cool water is an excellent way to beat the summer heat and reduce pressure on your feet. Swimming is not only refreshing but also a low-impact exercise option.
2. Wear Light and Breezy Clothing: Opt for loose-fitting clothing made of breathable fabrics in light colors. This helps you stay comfortable by reflecting the sun’s rays and combating the humidity and heat.
3. Stay Out of Direct Sunlight: Avoid going outside during the peak hours of a sunny day, as pregnant women are more susceptible to sunburn. If necessary, protect yourself from harsh UV rays by wearing a hat, sunglasses, using a parasol, and applying sunscreen with SPF 30 to 45, especially if you have fair skin.
4. Exercise with Caution: Choose your exercise routine wisely and be mindful of the timing and location. Engage in physical activity during cooler hours, such as early morning or sunset, to avoid the intense heat. Consider indoor exercises in air-conditioned environments, such as joining a pregnancy program at the gym or suitable indoor classes. Swimming is an ideal choice as it provides a low-resistance-high-impact workout while keeping you cool.
5. Stay Hydrated: Rehydrate regularly by drinking eight ounces of fluids (water or electrolyte replacement) per hour spent outside on a hot summer’s day. If you experience fatigue, dizziness, weakness, or excessive thirst, seek shelter indoors immediately, lie down, and drink a cool beverage to lower your body temperature. If symptoms persist, it’s essential to consult Dr. Mrudhula Peta promptly.
6. Mist Yourself with Water: Carrying a spray bottle filled with water allows you to periodically spritz yourself and stay cool during your time outdoors in Abu Dhabi.
7. Elevate Your Feet: Spend some time each day elevating your feet above heart level to reduce swelling, particularly in the legs, which can be exacerbated by the summer heat.
8. Eat Nutritious Foods: Proper nutrition is crucial during pregnancy, especially in hot weather. Ensure you consume protein-rich foods and healthy fats like avocados and oils to support your health as you endure the sweltering sun.
9. Avoid Spoiling Foods: If you’re carrying food outdoors, be mindful of items that can spoil quickly under the summer sun. Ensure you select foods that are safe and won’t pose any risks to your well-being.

By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can enhance your chances of having a smooth and enjoyable summer pregnancy in Abu Dhabi. Trust Dr. Mrudhula Peta’s expertise as a gynecology specialist at LLH Hospital Musaffah to guide you through this special journey.

Hypertension:

Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a global health concern affecting a significant portion of the adult population. This blog aims to provide an overview of essential hypertension, including its symptoms, causes, complications, and available treatments.

Prevalence and Awareness:

• It is estimated that 1.28 billion adults aged 30-79 worldwide have hypertension, with two-thirds residing in low- and middle-income countries.
• Surprisingly, around 46% of adults with hypertension are unaware of their condition.
• Only 42% of adults diagnosed with hypertension receive appropriate treatment.
• Alarmingly, just 21% of individuals with hypertension have their blood pressure under control.

Overview of Hypertension:

Hypertension is defined as having blood pressure levels equal to or higher than 140/90 mmHg. Although it is a common condition, it can lead to severe complications if left untreated. Notably, individuals may not experience any noticeable symptoms, emphasizing the importance of regular blood pressure check-ups.

Risk Factors of Hypertension:

Several factors contribute to an increased risk of developing hypertension, including:

• Advancing age
• Genetic predisposition
• Overweight or obesity
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Excessive salt consumption
• Heavy alcohol consumption

Symptoms of Hypertension:

Hypertension is often referred to as the “silent killer” due to its asymptomatic nature. However, extremely high blood pressure levels can manifest symptoms such as severe headaches, chest pain, dizziness, difficulty breathing, and blurred vision. Immediate medical attention is necessary for individuals experiencing these symptoms alongside high blood pressure readings.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

Hypertension is diagnosed when repeated blood

pressure measurements show systolic readings ≥140 mmHg and/or diastolic readings ≥90 mmHg. The primary focus of treatment involves lifestyle modifications and, if necessary, medication. Recommendations for managing hypertension include:

• Adopting a healthy, low-salt diet
• Weight reduction for overweight individuals
• Regular physical activity
• Smoking cessation
• Medication, if prescribed by a healthcare professional

Prevention:

Prevention plays a vital role in managing hypertension. Incorporating the following lifestyle changes can help prevent and control high blood pressure:

Increasing consumption of fruits and vegetables

• Engaging in regular physical activity, both aerobic and strength-building exercises
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Complying with prescribed medication
• Attending scheduled medical appointments

Complications:

Uncontrolled hypertension can lead to serious complications, including:

• Damage to the heart, potentially causing chest pain, heart attack, heart failure, or irregular heart rhythm.
• Increased risk of stroke due to arterial blockage or rupture in the brain.
• Kidney damage, potentially leading to kidney failure.

Conclusion:

Essential hypertension poses a significant health risk worldwide, with a substantial number of individuals remaining undiagnosed and untreated. Understanding the symptoms, risk factors, and complications associated with hypertension is crucial for effective management. By implementing lifestyle changes, seeking timely medical attention, and adhering to prescribed treatments, individuals can reduce the impact of hypertension on their overall health and well-being.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic Retinopathy is the leading cause of Blindness in the working age group population worldwide. The prevalence of diabetes is rising with increasing industrialization and globalization along with sedentary lifestyles. Consequently, the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy and vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy is also expected to increase especially with increased life expectancies. The duration of Diabetes is the major risk factor in the development of retinopathy. Diabetic Retinopathy is the ocular manifestation of end-organ damage in Diabetes. Retinal neurodegeneration followed by microvascular abnormalities result in retinal damage. 

Only about 60% of people with diabetes are screened annually for diabetic retinopathy. There needs to be a lot more referrals to the Ophthalmologists for retinal screening.

People with type 1 diabetes should have annual screenings for diabetic retinopathy beginning 5 years after the onset of their disease, whereas those with type 2 diabetes should have a prompt screening at the time of diagnosis and mandatory yearly screenings thereafter. A dilated retinal examination along with retinal fundus photography for documentation is recommended. Patients with manifested diabetic retinopathy are monitored more frequently as required.

Women with diabetes who become pregnant should be monitored closely during their pregnancies because the disease can progress rapidly. However, an eye examination is not required when gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy. 

Maintaining blood sugar, blood pressure and serum lipid levels lowers the risk of retinopathy developing and/or progressing, so patients must be informed of the importance of maintaining good levels of glycosylated haemoglobin along with normal blood pressure and blood lipid levels. It is also vital to educate patients that during early stages of the disease, the vision remains normal. It is only during the moderate and late stages of the disease that visual impairment occurs.

Management options for diabetic retinopathy includes following a healthy diet and lifestyle, medical management, timely ophthalmic evaluation, and treatment under the care of an ophthalmologist. Intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injections are effective in the treatment of diabetic macular oedema. Laser pan-retinal photocoagulation (PRP) remains the mainstay treatment for proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). Late stages may require vitreous surgery along with retinal endo laser at the time of surgery.

Early detection of Diabetic Retinopathy plays a pivotal role in optimizing treatment outcomes and preventing visual impairment or loss.

Discover crucial insights about diabetic retinopathy, a prevalent eye disease among individuals with diabetes, and a significant cause of blindness in adults. LLH Hospital’s ophthalmology specialists provide comprehensive information to help you understand and tackle this condition effectively. Stay informed and take control of your eye health with LLH Hospital’s expert guidance on diabetic retinopathy.

Type 1 diabetes is an auto-immune disease in which the body does not produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. This can lead to high blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia), which can cause serious health problems if left untreated. It can be caused by genetics, environmental triggers, and autoimmune disorders. The condition usually begins in childhood or young adulthood and may last throughout your life. To control blood sugar levels, you must take insulin injections regularly and carefully manage your diet.  

What Causes Type 1 Diabetes? 

It is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Insulin is a hormone that helps control blood sugar levels.  

When you eat, your body breaks down food into glucose (a type of sugar), which enters your bloodstream and raises blood sugar levels.  

However, if you have the condition, your body cannot make enough insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels. 

The cause is unknown. It appears that some combination of genetics and environmental factors (such as viruses) triggers the disease. 

What are the Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes? 

In the early stages, symptoms may not be noticeable, but they can include the following: 

• Increased hunger and thirst 
• Urination frequency 
• Extreme fatigue 
• Blurred vision 
• Irritability or mood swings 
• Frequent infections 

What are the Risk Factors? 

The most common risk factors include: 

Age – Children under the age of 10 are at greater risk for developing the condition because their bodies haven’t yet fully developed the ability to produce insulin. 

Family History – If your family has a history of type 1 diabetes, you may be more likely to develop it yourself. 

Genetics – If you have certain genetic markers for type 1 diabetes, you may be at higher risk of developing it than someone without those markers. 

What are the Treatments Available? 

It is a lifelong condition affecting how your body metabolizes glucose and produces insulin.  

The goal of the treatment is to manage your blood sugar levels through diet and exercise, as well as regularly monitoring your blood sugar levels and administering insulin shots. 

The most important aspect of treating Type 1 Diabetes is maintaining a healthy diet and exercising regularly. A healthy diet can help you regulate your blood sugar levels, while exercise gives you more energy to maintain a healthy lifestyle. 

It is an autoimmune disease that results in the body’s immune system attacking the cells that produce insulin. The team of board-certified physicians, nurses, and other health care professionals at LLH Hospital, Abu Dhabi, specializing in the treatment of type 1 diabetes and will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs, 

Diabetes is a serious, life-threatening illness that affects millions of people worldwide. It’s important to protect yourself against it by staying healthy. Here are nine tips for protecting yourself against diabetes: 

Know the Warning Signs 

The first step to protecting yourself against diabetes is knowing the warning signs. It’s important to understand what symptoms you should be on the lookout for so that you can catch any problems early and get treatment before they become too serious. The symptoms include: 

• Excessive thirst 
• Frequent urination 
• Increased hunger 
• Blurred vision 

Get Screened Early and Often  

It is a serious disease, and early diagnosis can help you control your health. If you’re at risk for developing diabetes, get screened early and often. 

The first step in preventing the condition is getting regularly screened for the disease. The American Diabetes Association recommends that adults between the ages of 45 and 65 get tested at least every three years, while adults older than 65 should be tested annually. 

If you have symptoms of diabetes, such as frequent urination, increased thirst, or unexplained weight loss, talk to your doctor about additional testing options. 

Control Your Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, and Weight 

High blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and obesity are all risk factors for diabetes. As such, they should be monitored closely—especially if they run in your family.  

If you have any of these risk factors, make sure to see your doctor regularly for check-ups.  

This will help ensure that your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and weight stay within healthy ranges to reduce your chances of developing diabetes later on down the line. 

Be Active 

Exercise is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of developing diabetes. The more active you are, the lower your risk of developing diabetes. 

Start by adding more activity into your daily routine whenever possible, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or walking to the store instead of driving. Gradually increase your activity level until you get at least 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) of moderate physical activity per week. 

Exercise can also help you manage blood glucose levels if you have diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels after eating, improving insulin sensitivity, and reducing insulin resistance. 

Make Healthy Food Choices  

Eating healthy foods is one of the best ways to protect yourself. Here are some tips for making healthy food choices: 

• Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables. 
• Choose whole grains instead of refined grains. 
• Limit added sugars and sodium (salt). 
• Eat less than six ounces of red meat per week, and avoid processed meats completely. 

Get Plenty of Sleep 

According to a study by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, people who sleep less than six hours per night are more likely to develop pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes. And if you already have diabetes, getting enough sleep can help you manage it better. 

The reason is that sleep deprivation causes your body to produce more cortisol and insulin, which can lead to insulin resistance and cause high blood sugar levels. When you get enough sleep, your body can produce more insulin, lowering blood sugar levels and helping protect against diabetes. 

Stay Hydrated 

One of the first tips to help prevent it is to stay hydrated. The kidneys play an important role in regulating glucose metabolism, and water consumption help with their function. When you’re dehydrated, your body doesn’t function as well because it’s unable to process blood sugar properly. Drinking eight glasses of water daily is important for overall health, but it’s especially beneficial for diabetics. 

Quit Smoking and Alcohol 

In the fight against diabetes, smoking and alcohol are two of the biggest enemies you can face. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), alcohol consumption is a risk factor for the condition. The more you drink, the higher your risk. 

In addition, smoking increases your risk for type 2 diabetes as well as other health problems. It damages blood vessels, reduces circulation, and damages organs like your liver and heart. This damage can lead to high blood pressure and increased levels of bad cholesterol in your body. 

Discuss Your Risks with Your Doctor 

If you have a family history of diabetes, you may be at risk for developing the disease. Your doctor can help you determine whether you are at risk and how to prevent it. The best way to protect yourself against it is to consult your doctor to discuss your risks and get regular checkups to protect yourself against diabetes. 

Diabetes is a common condition, and it’s important to know how to protect yourself. LLH Hospital, Abu Dhabi is a leading diabetes care and treatment provider in the UAE. Our board-certified physicians are highly trained and experienced in the field, and we offer a full range of services for patients with diabetes.  Our services include: 

• Diagnosis and treatment of diabetes, including insulin pumps 
• Chronic disease management 
• Complications management and prevention 

We also offer a comprehensive education program to help you learn how to manage the disease.