Hypertension is the main risk factor for the development of serious cardiovascular diseases, such as acute myocardial infarction and stroke. In Portugal, one of the largest and most important studies carried out by the Portuguese Society of Hypertension, in 2011 and 2012, revealed an estimated prevalence of 42.2% of people with hypertension (44.4% in men and 40.2% in women).
Which people are more vulnerable to temperature changes? Does the risk of heart attack and stroke increase? Heat causes vasodilation, leading to a drop in blood pressure. Those most affected are the elderly, who are usually already taking blood pressure medication and suffer from the sudden change in the body's circulatory dynamics. Even so, there is still the possibility that blood pressure will rise, as their bodies are sensitive and have more exacerbated vascular reactions.
Doctors recommend that hypertensive patients take their medication in the morning. During sleep, the vessels relax, but tension quickly rises again when you wake up, which is why most heart attacks occur in the morning. For this reason, it is necessary to regularly maintain restful sleep, which can be a challenge in hot weather. After the hottest months, it's a good idea to see your doctor to re-tune your hypertension medication and clarify any doubts you may have.
It is essential for hypertensive patients to be aware of and adopt their doctor’s recommendations for necessary adjustments and to be aware of the warning signs, which should motivate them to go to the doctor. The appearance, for example, of dizziness, headache or blurred vision are some of the symptoms that may be related to uncontrolled blood pressure.
Any change in antihypertensive therapy and medication must always, without exception, be carried out under medical supervision. Managing them on your own could entail serious risks to your health, so you shouldn't hesitate to seek advice from your doctor.
At our medical clinics, we offer Cardiology consultations, where you'll find cardiologists who are specialized in diagnosis and treatment of diseases related to high blood pressure and other cardiology conditions.