Beat the Heat: Why Hypertensive and Diabetic Patients Must Take Extra Precautions in Sweltering Temperatures
- As the country experiences a heatwave, medical interns are advising diabetic and hypertensive patients to take necessary precautions to avoid exposure to strong heat.
- Maritza Durán, former president of the Venezuelan Society of Internal Medicine, explains that heat can cause vasodilation, leading to a drop in blood pressure.
- However, it's crucial for patients to be cautious when making decisions about their treatment.
Protecting Diabetic and Hypertensive Patients from Heat
Luis Chunga
As the country experiences a heatwave, medical interns are advising diabetic and hypertensive patients to take necessary precautions to avoid exposure to strong heat.
The Impact of Heat on Blood Pressure
Maritza Durán, former president of the Venezuelan Society of Internal Medicine, explains that heat can cause vasodilation, leading to a drop in blood pressure.
However, it’s crucial for patients to be cautious when making decisions about their treatment. Dr. Durán warns against stopping or reducing medication doses without consulting a doctor, as this can lead to temporary blood pressure drops, followed by “rebounds” and potential emergency situations.
Recommended Precautions
Dr. Durán advises patients to continue their treatment and regularly measure their blood pressure in well-ventilated areas, avoiding hot environments and extreme temperatures.
Additionally, patients should be aware that heat can cause blood vessels to widen, leading to a drop in blood pressure.