As summer temperatures soar, people taking certain medications need to be especially vigilant about staying hydrated and managing the risk of heatstroke. Prolonged heatwaves can negatively impact the effectiveness and safety of many commonly prescribed medications, causing dehydration, dizziness, fainting, and other health complications.
Diuretics, or “water pills,” are commonly prescribed medications to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and certain kidney diseases. These drugs work by increasing the excretion of water and sodium from the body, effectively reducing fluid volume. However, heat waveThis mechanism can quickly lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, worsening heatstroke. Stay hydrated.
Beta-blockers: Impaired thermoregulation
Beta-blockers are widely used to treat high blood pressure, heart disease, and migraines. These medications can interfere with the body’s ability to effectively regulate body temperature. By blocking the effects of adrenaline, beta-blockers can reduce sweating, the body’s natural cooling mechanism. As a result, people taking beta-blockers may have an elevated body temperature and be at increased risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke in hot weather.
ACE inhibitors: dehydration and hypotension
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are often prescribed to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and kidney disease. These medications can lead to excess fluid loss and dehydration, especially in hot weather when you’re already losing fluids through sweating. ACE inhibitors can also cause low blood pressure, which can increase the risk of dizziness, fainting, and falls, especially in older adults.
Antidepressants and stimulants: Impaired thermoregulation
Certain antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), can affect the body’s ability to regulate its temperature. Similarly, stimulants used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), such as methylphenidate and amphetamines, can also impair thermoregulation and increase the risk of heatstroke.
Laxatives and painkillers: Both can lead to fluid loss, affect kidney function and upset mineral balance in the body.
So what can you do to avoid heatstroke?
To minimize the risks associated with taking these medications during extreme heat, the following precautions are recommended:
1. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and fluids throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Replenish electrolytes and maintain mineral balance. Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated drinks, which can cause dehydration.
2. Use air conditioning: Spend as much time as possible in air-conditioned environments, whether that be at home, in the office, or in a public building. If air conditioning is not available, find a cooler place or use a fan to increase air circulation.
3. Limit outdoor activities: Avoid the hottest times of the day, and if you must be outdoors, take frequent breaks in the shade or cooler areas.
4. Dress appropriately: Wear light, loose-fitting clothing that allows for proper air circulation and sweating.
5. Monitor symptoms: Watch for signs of heat stroke, such as dizziness, headache, nausea, muscle cramps, and excessive sweating. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
6. Consult your healthcare provider. If you have concerns about your medications and their potential effects during a heatwave, talk to your healthcare provider. They may recommend adjusting your dosage or switching you to a different medication, if needed.
(Dr Sani is Senior Consultant in Internal Medicine at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, Delhi)
© Indian Express Ltd.
First uploaded: 20 June 2024 14:00 IST
