“In the summer, blood pressure can be affected by the body’s attempts to lower the temperature by emitting heat. High temperatures and humidity increase blood flow to the skin. This fact causes tachycardia, as it circulates twice as much blood per minute as on a normal day” points out Mr. Athanasios Manolis Director of the 2nd Cardiology Clinic and Hypertension Center Metropolitan Hospital, Professor in the Department of Hypertension at Boston University, member of the Board of Directors of the European Society of Hypertension and continues:

What are the risks?

“The greatest risks arise when it’s hot and the humidity is above 70%. Some people (overweight or with heart, lung or kidney disease) are at higher risk of being affected by humidity and heat, as are the elderly.

Heat and sweat can also reduce the amount of fluid in the body, which can decrease blood volume and lead to dehydration. This affects the body’s ability to cool down and can also adversely affect the cardiovascular system.

When the body loses more fluid than it takes in, it has difficulty performing its normal functions. Anyone can become dehydrated, which can lead to serious complications. There are people who are at greater risk because of age, chronic conditions, or outdoor activities such as work or exercise.

Other risk factors include: Adults with heart disease, lung and kidney problems, or taking diuretics, tranquilizers or blood pressure medicines, people on a low-salt or low-sodium diet.

People with a history of high blood pressure should monitor it during heat waves. They should also drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, avoid the midday heat, eat a healthy diet, apply sunscreen when outdoors, and wear a hat. In most cases, when in doubt, stay in a cool environment at home,” he emphasizes.

Warning signs that your body is affected by the heat include:

  • Cold skin
  • Confusion
  • Dizziness
  • Disorientation
  • Rapid pulse
  • Excessive sweating
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Muscle cramps or spasms
  • Nausea

“You should find ways to keep your body cool during high temperatures and also store your medicines properly in a cool and dry place so they are not exposed to too much heat because some are affected by temperature changes.

Also, some medications can affect your ability to stay hydrated and respond to high temperatures, such as antihypertensives (beta-blockers and diuretics). It would be good to contact your personal doctor in case you need to change your medication”, concludes Mr. Manolis.

*The Hypertension Clinic of the Metropolitan Hospital was recognized as the first hypertension clinic in a private hospital in Greece and abroad, certified as a Center of Excellence by the European Society of Hypertension (June 2021). Also, Metropolitan Hospital is the first hospital in the private sector that participates in the writing of hypertension guidelines worldwide. This certification highlights the Hypertension Clinic for its innovative activity and the excellent quality and efficiency of its services in the research, diagnosis, treatment and treatment of hypertension.