Hypertension patients beware in hot weather: Expert issues vital warnings

Dr. Selim Özgül, an Internal Medicine Specialist, has issued critical warnings regarding the health risks posed by extreme summer heat, especially for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension. He explained that high temperatures cause the body to widen blood vessels in an effort to cool down. This, combined with fluid and mineral loss from sweating, can significantly destabilize blood pressure levels.

Dr. Özgül highlighted that older adults and individuals with heart or kidney conditions are particularly vulnerable to these heat-induced physiological changes. He noted that a sudden drop in blood pressure can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, fainting, and loss of balance, underscoring the need for vigilance.

A common and dangerous mistake, according to Dr. Özgül, is for patients to alter their medication dosages based on fluctuating blood pressure readings during the summer. He stressed that "The dosage of blood pressure medications should only be changed by a doctor if necessary." Patients are urged to measure their blood pressure regularly, record the readings, and seek medical advice for any abnormal changes. Tampering with medication can lead to uncontrolled hypertension and severe health complications.

To mitigate these risks, Dr. Özgül recommended several simple precautions. These include maintaining regular water intake without waiting to feel thirsty, avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun during the hottest hours, wearing light-colored and loose-fitting clothing, and scheduling strenuous physical activities for the cooler parts of the day. He also advised against consuming excessively salty or processed foods, favoring lighter, balanced meals instead. Dr. Özgül concluded by emphasizing the importance of seeking immediate medical attention for severe symptoms like intense dizziness, fainting, chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, or confusion.