The arrival of the monsoon may offer relief from summer heat, but health experts caution that the season can bring increased risks for heart patients. According to Dr. Nagendra Singh Chouhan, Senior Consultant in Cardiology at Medanta Hospital, Gurugram, the combination of high humidity, sudden temperature changes, and reduced sunlight can put additional strain on the cardiovascular system, particularly for those already living with heart disease.
He explained that damp and humid conditions during the rains make it easier for infections to spread, which in turn can stress the heart. Fluctuating temperatures can cause sudden changes in blood pressure, while the lack of sunlight may contribute to mood changes such as anxiety and depression, indirectly impacting heart health. The season also tends to encourage sedentary habits, with many people avoiding outdoor activity, and often indulging in fried and salty foods that can worsen cardiac risk factors.
Dr. Chouhan advised maintaining healthy eating habits, regular light exercise indoors, and proper hydration to protect the heart during the monsoon months. He also stressed the importance of monitoring blood pressure, avoiding self-medication, and consulting doctors about vaccinations and preventive measures. The focus, he said, should be on managing stress, staying active, and keeping immunity strong to reduce the strain on the heart during the wet season.