Dr Amir Khan has issued a warning for people with five specific health conditions to take extra precautions during the ongoing heatwave. The ITV doctor shared a TikTok video detailing medical conditions that can be exacerbated by hot weather.
Conditions at Risk
Dr Khan, a regular on Good Morning Britain and Lorraine, listed asthma and lung conditions, heart disease and high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, and migraines as being particularly vulnerable. He emphasized that hot air can irritate airways, and higher pollution and pollen levels can trigger symptoms in asthma and COPD patients.
For heart disease and high blood pressure, Dr Khan explained that blood vessels widen to cool the body, causing blood pressure to drop and the heart to work harder. He advised staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous activity during peak heat, and slowing down.
Diabetes patients face challenges as heat affects blood sugar levels and insulin absorption. Dehydration can make glucose control harder. Dr Khan recommended drinking plenty of fluids, monitoring blood sugar more closely, and storing insulin correctly.
Those with kidney disease are at risk because dehydration from sweating can worsen kidney function. He stressed sipping water throughout the day, especially for older adults or those taking water tablets.
Migraines and headaches can be triggered by heat and dehydration. Dr Khan advised staying cool, drinking water, and not skipping meals to maintain stable blood sugar.
Medication Caution
Dr Khan added a bonus warning: certain medications, including water tablets, some antidepressants, and antihistamines, can increase sensitivity to heat. He urged people to stay hydrated, seek shade, wear SPF, keep homes cool, and check on vulnerable relatives and neighbors.
