A superintendent pharmacist has issued an urgent warning to millions of people in the UK who take medication for high blood pressure, as the country braces for a major heatwave with temperatures forecast to exceed 38C in some areas.
Pharmacist Warns of Heat-Related Risks for Blood Pressure Patients
Robert Bradshaw, superintendent pharmacist at Oxford Online Pharmacy, cautioned those with hypertension to be vigilant about health issues triggered by hot weather. The Met Office has issued an Amber Extreme Heat Warning from Monday through Thursday, with temperatures widely exceeding 35C.
According to the British Heart Foundation, over 50 million prescriptions for beta-blockers are issued annually in the UK, with approximately two million people using them to control hypertension and other circulatory problems. Diuretics are also widely prescribed for heart failure and high blood pressure.
Bradshaw explained: "High temperatures and humidity can be a bad combination for anyone who suffers from high blood pressure, as the hot weather causes the heart to beat faster, circulating twice as much blood around the body. Also, some blood pressure medications like beta blockers and diuretics can affect the body's ability to stay hydrated or respond to high temperatures."
Key Precautions for Those on Blood Pressure Medication
The pharmacist urged anyone with a history of high blood pressure to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, stay out of direct sunlight, remain in a cool environment wherever possible, and wear a hat when outdoors. As temperatures rise, the body works harder to maintain a normal core temperature, placing extra strain on the heart, lungs, and kidneys.
Bradshaw added: "You should also monitor your blood pressure regularly during the heatwave. If it's high or you are experiencing any worrying symptoms like extreme tiredness or confusion, a rapid pulse, excessive sweating, headaches, swelling in your arms and legs or nausea, seek urgent emergency medical advice."
Impact on People with Angina and Heart Failure
The British Heart Foundation has also issued guidance for those with angina or heart failure. It stated: "If you use a GTN spray to control your angina, you should take extra care in hot weather. GTN spray can dilate your blood vessels quickly, which causes your blood pressure to suddenly drop and you may feel faint."
For heart failure patients, the foundation advises: "It's particularly important to stay cool if you have heart failure - where your heart doesn't pump blood around your body as well as it should. If you've been told to restrict your fluid intake, speak to your GP about other ways to keep cool during summer. If you take water tablets and are dizzy or light headed let your doctor know. Your medication can then be reviewed or adapted as necessary."
Warning Signs of Heat Stroke
Dehydration can elevate core body temperature, presenting serious health risks. Indicators of heat stroke include perspiration, cold and clammy skin, dizziness, fainting, muscle cramps, heat rash, ankle swelling, rapid or shallow breathing, nausea, and vomiting. Anyone suspecting heat stroke should obtain medical assistance immediately.
