By Dr Ravi Jainapur, Consultant Cardiologist
SDM Narayana Heart Centre, Dharwad
Summer season for many is a time for planning that long-due vacation with family and friends. Though it is a welcome change for those confined to work, for others who deal with health issues like blood pressure, the warmer months can present a unique set of challenges.
There is a perception that high blood pressure is a concern primarily during winter. But summer’s hot and humid conditions and lifestyle changes can cause significant fluctuations in blood pressure readings, requiring careful attention and measures to prevent such fluctuations.
Why does blood pressure vary during the summer months and what steps need to be taken by those on hypertension medications? Let’s find out.
When temperature rises, your body initiates a natural cooling mechanism: vasodilation. This process involves the widening of your blood vessels, allowing heat to dissipate through the skin. Consequently, this vasodilation can lead to a drop in blood pressure. For some individuals this drop in pressure can manifest as lightheadedness, persistent fatigue, or even episodes of fainting.
However, the body’s response isn’t always straightforward. For those with pre-existing hypertension or other underlying health conditions, the physiological adjustments to heat can sometimes trigger a counter-reaction, potentially causing unexpected spikes in blood pressure.
Many factors contribute to such unpredictable blood pressure readings. These are:
Dehydration: Inadequate fluid intake is a significant concern during hot weather. When your body loses more fluids through sweat than it replenishes, blood volume can decrease, leading to a drop in blood pressure.
Excessive Perspiration: Sweating is a natural way to cool down, but it also leads to the loss of essential electrolytes like sodium. This electrolyte imbalance can directly impact the body’s ability to regulate blood pressure effectively.
Outdoor Physical Activity: Engaging in outdoor activities under the scorching sun can place additional stress on the cardiovascular system, and potentially cause temporary surges in blood pressure.
The frequent transition between extreme outdoor heat and artificially cooled indoor environments can also contribute to temporary fluctuations in blood pressure as your body struggles to adapt to these rapid temperature shifts.
Altered Medication Effectiveness: The way your body processes certain blood pressure medications can be influenced by factors like your hydration levels and overall body temperature. This might necessitate adjustments in dosage during the summer months.
Blood Pressure Management During Summer
There are a few effective strategies you can adopt to beat health challenges during the summer months and maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
Prioritise Hydration: Make a conscious effort to drink enough water throughout the day. Increase your fluid intake if you are engaging in physical activity or spending extended periods outdoors. Consider adding a pinch of salt to your water or squeezing some lemon juice to help replenish lost electrolytes naturally, especially if you experience lightheadedness.
Plan Your Activities: Avoid intense physical exertion during the hottest part of the day, typically between 10 A.M and 4 P.M. Opt for walks or workouts during the cooler early morning or late evening hours.
Use Light and Hydrating Foods: Include plenty of water-rich fruits and vegetables into your diet, such as watermelon, cucumber, leafy greens, tender coconut water, yoghurt, etc. These foods not only contribute to hydration but also provide essential nutrients that support healthy blood pressure.
Moderate Caffeine, Avoid Alcohol Consumption: Both caffeine and alcohol can have dehydrating effects and may interfere with blood pressure regulation. Limit your intake of coffee, especially during the hottest periods, and avoid alcoholic drinks.
Wear clothes made of breathable fabrics: Summer heat is harsh and it is best to opt for clothes made from breathable fabrics. Choose from cottons, linens and bamboo fabric which have moisture wicking / absorbing properties, in order to stay cool.
Check your blood pressure regularly: Check your BP at the same time each day and diligently record your readings. If you don’t have a home blood pressure monitor, then investing in it would be a good choice.
Consult Your Doctor: If you observe frequent or significant fluctuations in your blood pressure readings, it is important to consult your doctor. A healthcare provider can assess your situation and determine if adjustments to your medication dosage are necessary during the summer months.
By making small adjustments to diet and being cautious about your health, you can make the most of the summer months too.
About the Author
Dr. Ravi Jainapur is a Consultant Cardiologist at SDM Narayana Heart Centre, Dharwad. With extensive experience in managing cardiovascular conditions, he is dedicated to promoting heart health through patient education and evidence-based care.
