A new study conducted by the Yale School of Public Health revealed two drugs for heart disease that increase the risk of heart attack during the summer months, namely aspirin and beta-blockers.
Data collected by Yale University found that people who had nonfatal heart attacks during the summer often did not take these preventative medications.
“Patients who take these medications have a higher risk. During heat waves, they should take precautions,” Yale associate professor Kai Chin said of the findings.
Why are heart attacks more common during summer and winter?
Professor Chen said: “Heart attacks are more common in summer and winter when the body has to work harder to keep its core temperature at the right level. This means the heart has to work harder to pump more blood throughout the body.”
In the summer, this means working harder to keep the body cool, and in the winter to keep it warm.
However, the study does not mean that patients should stop taking it; Beta blockers and aspirin are essential.
What are beta blockers used for?
Beta-blockers are usually prescribed after consulting a general practitioner who will decide if they are necessary for use.
In addition to reducing the risk of a heart attack, beta-blockers may also be used to treat or prevent:
• Angina (chest pain).
• Atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat).
• Heart failure.
• high blood pressure.