Dr Amir Khan is one of the UK’s leading medical experts (Image: Daily Mirror)
The scorching heatwave continues to blast the UK, with this week seeing the temperatures ever recorded in June. While some love the hot weather, for others it can be very uncomfortable – and for people with a range of health conditions, it can be even more problematic.
Dr Amir Khan, a familiar face on ITV’s Good Morning Britain and Lorraine, where he regularly dishes out useful health advice, posted a video on TikTok revealing the five health conditions which could be made worse during the heatwave, and urged anyone living with them to take extra care. “We are in the middle of a heatwave, and hot weather can actually make some medical conditions worse,” he said. “So here are five common ones to watch out for in this hot weather.”
Asthma and lung conditions
Dr Khan said: “Hot air can irritate the airways and higher levels of pollution and pollen during warm weather can trigger symptoms.
“If you have asthma or COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), make sure you’re taking your preventive inhalers regularly and routinely. And always carry your inhalers with you just in case.”
Heart disease and high blood pressure
Hot weather can also cause problems for people with heart disease and high blood pressure. Dr Khan said: “When we’re hot, our blood vessels widen to help us cool down.
“This can cause blood pressure to drop, making some people feel dizzy, faint, or unwell. Your heart also has to work harder to keep your body cool.
“Stay well hydrated, avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day, and take things a little slower than usual.”
Diabetes
Dr Khan continued: “Did you know heat can affect blood sugar levels and may even alter how insulin is absorbed? On top of that, dehydration can make glucose levels harder to control.
“Drink plenty of fluids. Monitor your blood sugars more closely if you normally do, and store insulin according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Don’t let it get too hot.”
Kidney disease
Dehydration caused by the hot weather can also cause problems for people with kidney disease, Dr Khan said. “Your kidneys rely on a good supply of fluid to work properly,” he said.
“When you become dehydrated through sweating, kidney function can worsen. This is particularly important if you’re older or taking medicines such as water tablets. Keep sipping water throughout the day rather than waiting until you feel thirsty.”
Migraine and headaches
He continued: “Yes, heat and dehydration are major headache triggers. If you’re prone to migraines, try to stay cool, drink plenty of water and don’t skip meals as low blood sugar can also contribute on top of that heat.”
Dr Khan continued with a “bonus” warning. “Certain medications can make you feel more vulnerable to the heat as well, including water tablets, some antidepressants, and some antihistamines,” he said.
Concluding, he said: “So the key message is stay hydrated, stay in the shade during the hottest part of the day, always wear your SPF, keep your home cool if possible, and check in on older relatives, neighbours, and anyone with long-term health conditions that you might be worried about. Stay safe and, obviously, enjoy the sunshine sensibly.”
