Can heatstroke cause high blood pressure?
Nov 21, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Heatstroke may lead to high blood pressure, as it causes fever and increased blood flow. When a person suffers from heatstroke, the body's temperature regulation center becomes impaired, resulting in rapid heart rate and elevated blood pressure. Some patients who already have pre-existing hypertension may be particularly prone to increased blood pressure following heatstroke.
Heatstroke may lead to high blood pressure, as it causes fever and increased blood flow in affected individuals.
When a person suffers from heatstroke, the body's temperature regulation center becomes impaired, leading to symptoms such as fever and headache. This reflexively stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, resulting in rapid heart rate and elevated blood pressure. Some patients who already have pre-existing hypertension may, despite normally well-controlled blood pressure, experience symptoms like nausea and vomiting during heatstroke. These symptoms can make it difficult to take or absorb antihypertensive medications, thereby causing further increases in blood pressure.
When heatstroke occurs, the individual should immediately be removed from the high-temperature environment. Cooling measures such as applying ice packs should be used, and the person should drink mild salt water appropriately, or take medications like Huoxiang Zhengqi Water as directed by a physician. In severe cases, prompt hospitalization and emergency treatment are necessary. Individuals working in hot environments or during hot seasons should take precautions to avoid overheating, cool down promptly, stay hydrated, and maintain a balance between work and rest.
