Millions of people who have been prescribed medication for high blood pressure, such as beta blockers and diuretics, have received a warning from a pharmacist. With Wales set to experience sweltering conditions in a significant heatwave as temperatures climb above 30C across much of the nation, those who face elevated risks of health complications have been alerted to particular concerns.
An extreme heat warning has been declared by the Met Office, with certain areas anticipated to reach peaks of 38C. The meteorological service stated: "Met Office Amber Extreme Heat Warnings have been issued from Monday through to Thursday with temperatures widely exceeding 35C."
Across the UK, millions of individuals take beta-blockers and diuretics. According to the British Heart Foundation, over 50 million prescriptions for beta-blockers are issued annually, with approximately two million people relying on 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."
All beta-blocker drugs can affect how the body controls its temperature. They do this by reducing the heart rate and restricting the cardiovascular reactions, like blood vessel dilation, that are necessary for cooling down. The most common beta-blockers that impact temperature regulation include: Propranolol (Inderal,) Metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL), Atenolol (Tenormin) and Bisoprolol (Zebeta).
Diuretics are similarly routinely prescribed for ailments including heart failure and elevated blood pressure, often alongside beta-blockers. Superintendent pharmacist Robert Bradshaw, of Oxford Online Pharmacy, has cautioned people with high blood pressure to "watch out" for numerous health issues triggered by hot weather, reports the Mirror.
"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 explains: "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 encourages anyone with a background of high blood pressure to consume adequate fluids to remain hydrated. He also recommends avoiding the sun and remaining in a cool setting where feasible, and wearing a hat if going outside.
When temperatures rise, your body must work harder to sustain a normal core temperature, which can place extra pressure on your heart, lungs, and kidneys. This can heighten your risk if you already have a cardiac condition.
It's essential to keep cool and maintain hydration. Remaining properly hydrated by consuming sufficient fluids can help compensate for the additional perspiration you lose and prevent your blood pressure from falling too low.
The pharmacist 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."
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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 tell-tale signs of heat stroke?
Dehydration can elevate your core body temperature, which may prove hazardous if left untreated. Indicators of heat stroke encompass sweating, cold, clammy skin, dizziness, fainting, muscle cramps, heat rash, swelling in the ankles, rapid or shallow breathing, nausea, and vomiting.
Should you suspect that you or somebody nearby is suffering from heat stroke, seek medical assistance immediately.
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