Lithuanian doctors urge summer blood‑pressure monitoring

Family doctor Edita Puskunigytė explained that arterial hypertension, often called a “silent disease,” may show few symptoms but can damage arteries and vital organs. In summer, heat expands blood vessels, causing blood‑pressure readings to fall for many people, while others experience fluctuations. She advises regular home measurements, especially if headaches, dizziness, chest pain, palpitations, visual changes or nosebleeds occur, and warns against abruptly stopping medication during warm months.

Nutrition experts added that certain everyday foods can support blood‑pressure control. Potassium‑rich bananas help remove excess sodium, garlic contains compounds that dilate vessels, beetroot provides natural nitrates that relax arteries, oatmeal supplies fiber and beta‑glucans that aid cholesterol balance, and low‑sugar natural yogurt offers calcium and beneficial bacteria. These dietary options complement, but do not replace, prescribed treatment.