Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a serious condition that can lead to severe health complications if not managed properly.

The hot weather conditions in summer can also significantly affect the blood pressure of hypertension patients. This article provides tips for patients to follow this summer to help manage their hypertension.

1. Stay Hydrated

Hot weather conditions can dehydrate the body quickly, which can lead to an increase in blood pressure levels. Therefore, it is crucial to stay hydrated during this season.

Patients should drink plenty of water and other healthy liquids like coconut water, lemonade, and fresh fruit juice throughout the day.

2. Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine

Alcohol and caffeine can stimulate the nervous system and cause the blood vessels to narrow, leading to an increase in blood pressure levels.

Therefore, hypertension patients should limit their intake of alcohol and caffeinated beverages during this season.

3. Maintain a Healthy Diet

Patients with hypertension should maintain a healthy diet that is low in salt and rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. They should also avoid processed foods and limit their intake of saturated fats, cholesterol, and trans fats.

4. Stay Cool and Comfortable

Hot and humid weather conditions can increase blood pressure levels in hypertension patients. Therefore, they should stay cool and comfortable as much as possible. Patients can use air conditioning or fans to maintain a cool temperature indoors.

When outdoors, they should wear loose-fitting clothes made of breathable fabrics like cotton.

5. Exercise Regularly

Exercise is an important aspect of managing hypertension. It helps to lower blood pressure levels, improve heart health, and reduce stress.

Patients can engage in light to moderate exercise like walking, swimming, or cycling for at least 30 minutes a day.

6. Monitor Blood Pressure Regularly

Hypertension patients should regularly monitor their blood pressure levels during the summer season. This will help them keep track of any changes and take necessary actions to prevent any complications.

Patients can use a home blood pressure monitoring device or visit their doctor regularly.

7. Stay Stress-free

Stress is a significant contributor to hypertension. It can cause the blood vessels to narrow, leading to an increase in blood pressure levels. Therefore, patients should find ways to manage stress effectively.

They can try relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.

8. Take Medication as Prescribed

Hypertension patients should take their medication as prescribed by their doctor. Skipping or altering the dosage can lead to an increase in blood pressure levels, which can cause severe health complications.

Patients should also be aware of any side effects and seek medical attention if necessary.

9. Seek Medical Attention if Necessary

If hypertension patients experience any symptoms like headaches, chest pain, blurry vision, or difficulty breathing, they should seek medical attention immediately.

These symptoms could indicate a severe health complication that requires immediate medical attention.

10. Stay Informed

Hypertension patients should stay informed about their condition and educate themselves on the best ways to manage it.

They can attend hypertension management classes or seminars, read books or articles on the topic, or seek advice from their doctor or healthcare professional.