Protecting your heart during extreme summer heat

We have definitely had our fair share of the heat so far this summer.

Everyone has to take precautions, but if you have a heart condition it is especially important.

Your heart has to work harder in the heat.

If you start to over-heat, your heart rate can go up.

If you become dehydrated, that can affect your electrolytes like Magnesium, potassium and sodium.

But your heart depends on those electrolytes to contract and relax.

So make sure you stay hydrated with water or sports drinks and pay attention to warning signs.

"You might start feeling short of breath, more fatigued, easily with activities that you could do previously," said Dr. David Frid from the Cleveland Clinic.

If you have those symptoms - shortness of breath, fatigue, fast heart rate - you need to rest, find some shade or air conditioning and try to cool yourself down.

If symptoms don't resolve or you have chest pain, radiating pain or prolonged shortness of breath- that's a medical emergency. You should call 911 immediately.