Managing Chronic Conditions During Summer in Houston

Houston summers are notoriously hot, often stretching into triple digits with heavy humidity and minimal relief. While most people feel the effects of these intense conditions, those managing chronic health issues such as diabetes, heart disease or respiratory conditions face a greater risk of complications.

From dehydration and heat exhaustion to medication sensitivities and breathing difficulties, high temperatures can turn manageable health conditions into medical emergencies if proper precautions aren’t taken.

At St. Hope Healthcare, we want our patients and their families to know how to safely navigate the heat.

Why Heat and Humidity Are Risky for Chronic Conditions

When temperatures soar, your body works harder to cool itself. That means faster fluid loss, increased cardiovascular strain and a greater chance of fatigue or dizziness. Add in the heavy humidity common in the Houston area, and you have a recipe for reduced oxygen exchange and heat retention.

Diabetes and Heat: Watch for Dehydration and Blood Sugar Swings

People with diabetes are particularly vulnerable in hot weather. High temperatures can affect both insulin stability and blood glucose levels, while excessive sweating may lead to dehydration that worsens these issues.

Tips for managing diabetes in the summer:

• Hydrate frequently, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Dehydration can spike blood sugar.
  
  
• Store insulin properly. Keep it cool using a medical cooler or insulated pouch if you’re out of the house. Never leave insulin in a hot car.
  
  
• Monitor blood sugar more often, as heat can cause levels to rise or fall unpredictably.
  
  
• Be mindful of symptoms like dizziness, confusion or weakness. They could indicate both heat exhaustion and low blood sugar.

Heart Conditions: Reduce Strain on Your Cardiovascular System

For patients with heart disease, the heat can increase the workload on your heart. As your body attempts to cool itself, blood vessels expand and the heart pumps faster. This can lead to increased blood pressure, fluid imbalances and even heart rhythm issues in vulnerable individuals.

Tips for managing heart conditions in the heat:

• Avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day (usually 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
  
  
• Weigh yourself daily if advised by your doctor. Sudden weight gain can signal fluid retention.
  
  
• Stick to a low-sodium diet, especially in the summer when salty snacks and drinks are common.
  
  
• Talk to your provider about how the heat might impact your medications, particularly diuretics or beta blockers.

Respiratory Conditions: Managing Air Quality and Humidity

High humidity and heat can make breathing harder for individuals with asthma, COPD or other respiratory conditions. Hot air holds more pollutants, and ozone levels tend to rise on still, sunny days. Humid air can also trap allergens and irritants, making it more difficult for your lungs to function comfortably.

Tips for managing respiratory issues:

• Check your local air quality index (AQI) before going outside.
  
  
• Use a portable air purifier indoors to help reduce irritants.
  
  
• If possible, stay in air-conditioned spaces to avoid both heat and poor air quality.
  
  
• Carry your rescue inhaler or nebulizer whenever you leave the house and follow your asthma action plan closely.

General Summer Safety Tips for Everyone

Even if your condition isn’t listed above, these general tips can help you stay safe and avoid a trip to the ER:

• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing in light colors.
• Use sunscreen to protect your skin
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals to prevent overheating.
• Don’t ignore warning signs like headache, rapid heartbeat, nausea or confusion.

These could be signs of heatstroke or dehydration.

When to Seek Help

Call your doctor or seek emergency care immediately if you experience:

• Difficulty breathing
• Chest pain
• Lightheadedness or confusion
• Severe fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest
• High blood sugar that doesn’t respond to insulin

Delaying care in high heat can lead to rapid health deterioration, especially for those with chronic conditions.

Stay Ahead of the Houston Heat With a Personalized Care Plan

Managing chronic illness is a full-time job, and summer heat makes it even more demanding. But with the right tools and a solid care plan, you can enjoy the season without compromising your health.

Schedule a visit or call today at (713) 778-1300 to talk to our healthcare team about how to stay safe and healthy during the summer in Bellaire, Sugar Land, Houston and Dickinson. We’ll help you stay prepared, informed and ready to handle whatever the season brings.