Critical warning from the Ministry of Health: Pay attention to these hours

The Ministry of Health has warned patients with hypertension and cardiovascular diseases to avoid going outside between 10:00 and 16:00 during extreme heat unless absolutely necessary, and to consult a specialist immediately if they experience sudden-onset headaches or sudden spikes or drops in blood pressure.

The Ministry provided information regarding precautions that patients with hypertension and cardiovascular diseases should take during extreme heat.

According to the guidance, extreme heat can cause blood vessels to dilate and lead to fluid loss during the day, resulting in a drop in blood pressure, while it may cause blood pressure to rise during nighttime hours.

Excessive sweating leads to a loss of water and minerals in the body, and can also reduce blood fluidity.

High temperatures cause blood vessels in the legs and arms to dilate, slowing circulation and increasing heart rate, which raises the risk of heart attack, arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat), and heart failure.

While the effects of medications used to treat cardiovascular diseases can change in hot weather, these drugs may also impair heat tolerance and the body's ability to regulate its own temperature.

For this reason, patients should not stop taking their medication or change their dosage without consulting their physician. It is particularly important for hypertension patients to re-consult their doctors regarding the dosages of their diuretic medications.

Smoking and alcohol consumption carry serious risks for patients with hypertension and cardiovascular diseases, as they do for many other conditions. Smoking causes the vessel walls to lose their elasticity, making treatment for hypertension more difficult, while alcohol can lead to severe drops in blood pressure and liver failure.

Patients with hypertension and cardiovascular diseases are advised to drink enough water and limit their consumption of caffeinated and sugary beverages such as tea and coffee.

In addition, it is recommended to maintain a sufficient and balanced diet, consume lean protein sources such as chicken, fish, and turkey, eat fiber-rich foods like whole wheat or grain bread, fruits, and vegetables, avoid processed foods with high sugar content, and ensure that daily salt intake does not exceed one teaspoon.

In the ministry's briefing, other warnings that are important to pay attention to during extreme heat are as follows:

"Unless necessary, do not go outside between 10:00 and 16:00, when the sun's effect is strongest. When you are outside, prefer cool and shaded areas. Wear light-colored, comfortable clothing and wear a suitable hat that protects you from the sun. Use comfortable, breathable shoes. Avoid excessively humid environments.

Take regular walks or exercise. However, do not engage in strenuous physical activities. Be sure to consume fluids before and after walking, and rest in shaded and cool places during breaks. Prefer early morning and evening hours for exercise. Do not exercise immediately after eating and avoid heavy exercise. Get information from your doctor about physical activities that may be suitable for you. Take warm showers; do not take cold or hot showers during the summer months. If you experience a sudden rise or drop in your blood pressure, or a sudden onset of headache, be sure to consult your doctor."