How medications you take can put you at risk in hot temperatures

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Extreme heat is in our forecast for today with triple digit feels-like temperatures. Hot weather like this isn’t just uncomfortable, it’s also incredibly dangerous and even deadly.

If you plan to spend any time outside today, make sure to bring some water, take breaks often, ideally inside or in the shade, and listen to your body. There are some clear signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion that you definitely won’t want to avoid.

If you feel yourself getting dizzy at all, becoming nauseous, or experiencing any muscle cramps, you’ll want to get somewhere cool and drink water immediately.

Keep a close eye on your kids today, children have a harder time regulating body temperature and may have trouble articulating some of the more internal signs. A few physical symptoms to watch for in your kids and yourself are heavy sweating, clammy or pale skin, and rapid, but weak pulse.

Some signs of heat stroke include a throbbing headache, dry, hot skin, and even loss of consciousness. If you or someone else are experiencing these symptoms, call 911 right away.

Hot weather can pose a threat to all of us with dehydration, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke, but some are at risk more than others.

Different medications can cause increased sensitivity to heat and the sun, and more of us are impacted than you’d think. Not only prescription medications, but also many over the counter medications can lead to a higher heat risk.

Many medications that can increase your risk of heat-related illnesses either contain salt which reduces sweating or can lower blood pressure which can make people more prone to fainting.

Affected people may be those taking medicine for all kinds of ailments ranging from allergies and congestion to depression and arthritis.

If you are taking medication for any of the following illnesses or conditions, you may have an increased risk for sun sensitivity:

  • High cholesterol
  • Acne or aging skin
  • Pain
  • Allergic reactions
  • Nausea following a surgery
  • Arrhythmia
  • Diabetes
  • Arthritis
  • Psoriasis

If you are taking medication for any of the following illnesses or conditions, you may have an increased risk for heat sensitivity:

  • Seasonal allergies
  • Congestion
  • Heart disease
  • Parkinson’s Disease
  • ADHD
  • Asthma
  • Migraines

If you are taking medication for any of the following illnesses or conditions, you may have an increased risk for both heat and sun sensitivity:

  • Depression
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Anxiety
  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • Nausea

You might want to consider avoiding some over-the-counter medications for today, but if something is prescribed to you, you shouldn’t stop taking it before talking to your doctor. Make sure to check with your health care provider or pharmacist if you have any concerns about your risk of sun and heat sensitivity related to any medications you’re taking.

To keep you and your family safe today, it is recommended to stay inside when possible, take frequent breaks, and increase your water intake.

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