A pharmacist has issued a warning to millions of people taking high blood pressure medication
Millions of Brits diagnosed with high blood pressure who are on prescribed medication, such as beta blockers and diuretics, have been issued an urgent warning by a pharmacist. As the UK braces for a major heatwave with temperatures soaring above 30C across much of the country, those more vulnerable to health complications have been alerted to specific concerns.
The Met Office has issued an extreme heat alert, with some areas forecast to hit highs of 38C. The weather agency stated: “Met Office Amber Extreme Heat Warnings have been issued from Monday through to Thursday with temperatures widely exceeding 35C.”
Across the UK, millions rely on beta-blockers and diuretics. The British Heart Foundation reports that over 50 million prescriptions for beta-blockers are issued annually, with approximately two million people using them to control hypertension and other circulatory problems.
It states: “Each year there are more than 50 million prescriptions for beta blockers in the UK.” Diuretics are likewise widely prescribed for ailments including heart failure and high blood pressure, often alongside beta-blockers, reports the Mirror.
Superintendent pharmacist Robert Bradshaw, of Oxford Online Pharmacy, has cautioned those with high blood pressure to “watch out” for a range of health issues triggered by hot weather. “UK temperatures are expected to soar this weekend, and Brits need to keep their wits about them, ensuring they’re aware of the necessary steps to take if faced with any heat-related health risks”, he said.
What do people taking high blood pressure medication need to know?
Robert Bradshaw says: “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.”
He urges anyone with a history of high blood pressure to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Staying out of direct sunlight and remaining in a cool environment wherever possible is also recommended, along with wearing a hat when heading outdoors.
As temperatures rise, your body is forced to work harder to maintain a normal core temperature, placing extra strain on your heart, lungs, and kidneys. This can heighten the risk for those already living with a heart condition.
Keeping cool and staying hydrated are absolutely vital. Drinking plenty of fluids helps replenish the additional fluid lost through perspiration and prevents your blood pressure from dropping dangerously low.
The pharmacist continued: “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.”
How does hot weather impact people with angina and heart failure?
The British Heart Foundation says: “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.”
It adds: “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.”
What are the warning signs of heat stroke?
Becoming dehydrated can elevate your core body temperature, presenting serious health risks if left untreated. 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. Should you suspect heat stroke in yourself or another person, obtain medical assistance immediately.
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