Healthy Heart In the Heat

Six Tips to protect your heart when the temperature rises 

By Taylor Pohle, PA/Intermountain Health Cardiology 

2. Avoid the Midday Heat

The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and heat stress on your heart increases during this window.

Tip: Plan outdoor activities for early morning or later in the evening. If you need to be outside during peak hours, take breaks in the shade or in air-conditioned spaces.

3. Dress Smart for Summer

Wearing the right clothing can help your body cool more efficiently.

Tip: Opt for loose-fitting, light-colored clothing made of breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking athletic wear. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses can help reduce sun exposure.

4. Know Your Limits

Hot weather can increase your risk of heat exhaustion or even heart attack, particularly if you're overexerting yourself.

Tip: If you start to feel dizzy, fatigued, or short of breath, stop what you're doing, rest in a cool place, and drink water. Always listen to your body—pushing through isn’t worth the risk.

5. Check-In on Medications

Some medications—such as diuretics, beta-blockers, and certain blood pressure pills—can make you more sensitive to heat or increase fluid loss.

Tip: Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether any of your medications could affect your ability to handle heat and make a plan to stay safe.

6. Know the Warning Signs of Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is a medical emergency that can be fatal without quick action. If you or someone else experiences the following symptoms, call 911 immediately:

• A high body temperature (over 103°F)
• Hot, dry skin or profuse sweating
• Rapid pulse
• Dizziness or confusion
• Fainting or unconsciousness

Summer should be a time to enjoy the outdoors—but not at the expense of your heart health. By staying mindful of the heat and how it affects your body, you can safely enjoy the season while keeping your heart protected.

Do you have concerns about your heart health? Contact your primary care provider or learn more about Intermountain Health’s heart health services:  intermountainhealthcare.org/services/heart-vascular-care

By Taylor Pohle, PA/Intermountain Health Cardiology



More from the Experts at St. Vincent Regional Hospital

About St. Vincent Regional Hospital

Founded on our mission of compassionate care 125 years ago, St. Vincent Regional Hospital, part of Intermountain Health, has grown into one of Montana’s largest comprehensive hospitals, serving the healthcare needs of over 400,000 people in our four-state area. Continuing to respond to the needs of our community, we have been recognized as an innovator in trauma, heart, neurological and cancer care. At St. Vincent and Intermountain Health, our 12 primary care clinics, and specialty clinics in and around the Billings area, our goal is to help you live the healthiest lives possible. This also includes caring for the region's youngest patients. We opened the region's first Pediatric Intensive Care Unit staffed 24/7 by Pediatric Intensivists and the only Pediatric Surgery program serving eastern Montana, northern Wyoming, and the western Dakotas.