Introduction from the Cross County Cardiology Education Team:
As temperatures rise, it’s crucial to understand how certain medications can impact your ability to stay cool and hydrated. At Cross County Cardiology, we are dedicated to ensuring our patients have the information they need to stay safe during extreme weather conditions. Certain medications, including those for mental health, high blood pressure, and allergies, can increase your susceptibility to heat-related illnesses. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself during heat waves.
Key Points:
Certain medications, including some for mental health, high blood pressure, and allergies, can make it harder for your body to stay cool and hydrated during heat waves. Here's what you need to know to stay safe.
Medications That Raise Risk:
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Diuretics (Water Pills): Used for heart failure, kidney disease, or high blood pressure, they increase urination, which can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, making it harder to regulate body temperature.
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ACE Inhibitors: Commonly prescribed for high blood pressure, these can increase the risk of fainting and suppress thirst, making it hard to know when to drink more water.
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Beta Blockers: Another type of blood pressure medication that can cause fainting and make it difficult to sweat, hindering the body's cooling process.
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Calcium Channel Blockers: These can cause electrolyte imbalances, affecting body temperature regulation.
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Antipsychotics: Medications like haloperidol, olanzapine, and risperidone can impair your ability to sweat, increasing body temperature.
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Antidepressants: Some increase sweating and suppress thirst, leading to dehydration during heat waves.
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Thyroid Hormone Replacement: These can raise body temperature and cause excessive sweating.
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Stimulants for ADHD: Drugs like amphetamines can raise body temperature by affecting the central nervous system.
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Over-the-Counter Antihistamines: Medications like Benadryl and Unisom can reduce sweating and impair temperature regulation.
How to Stay Safe in Extreme Heat:
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Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illness:
- Heat Exhaustion: Heavy sweating, cold or clammy skin, headaches, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps, dizziness, or fatigue.
- Heat Stroke: Body temperature of 103°F or higher, red/hot/dry or damp skin, confusion, headache, or unconsciousness. Seek emergency medical care immediately if you notice these symptoms.
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Stay Indoors: Try to stay in air-conditioned places. If you don't have air conditioning, go to a cooling center like a library.
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Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and replenish electrolytes with sports drinks or fruits and leafy greens. If outside, drink 8 ounces of water every 15 to 20 minutes.
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Dress Appropriately: Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing that reflects the sun. Avoid being outside during the hottest parts of the day; early morning or late evening is best.
Opinion from the Cross County Cardiology Education Team:
It's essential to be aware of how your medications can affect your body's ability to cope with extreme heat. If you're on any of these medications, take extra precautions to stay cool and hydrated. Understanding the risks and taking proactive steps can help prevent heat-related illnesses. Always consult with your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your specific situation.
Stay informed and stay safe! For more detailed information,
check out the original New York Times article: Click here
