What should patients with hypertension pay special attention to when they have a fever?
Disease description:
Recently, I was diagnosed with hypertension at the hospital, and developed a cold and fever the very next day. I would like to ask, what should hypertension patients pay special attention to when they have a fever?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Tian Hongbo
When a patient with hypertension develops a fever, the following points require special attention:
1. Seek timely medical care: Visit a healthcare provider promptly to determine whether adjustments to the current hypertension treatment plan are necessary.
2. Monitor blood pressure: Regularly measure blood pressure to track any changes.
3. Monitor body temperature: Patients with hypertension should closely monitor their body temperature when experiencing a fever. If the temperature remains below 38.5°C, physical cooling methods may be used, such as drinking more water, applying a cooling forehead patch, or performing tepid water sponge baths. If the temperature exceeds 38.5°C, antipyretic medications should be used under a doctor's guidance.
4. Use medications appropriately: Under a doctor's guidance, select suitable fever-reducing medications and avoid drugs that may affect blood pressure control.
5. Ensure adequate rest: Sufficient rest helps the body recover and reduces the burden on the heart.
6. Adjust diet: During a fever, patients should follow a light, low-fat, low-salt diet and consume more vegetables and fruits rich in vitamins, which can help enhance immunity and promote recovery.
