Heat Stroke Is a Side Effect of Several Medications: Here's What You Need to Know

High temperatures are not only uncomfortable but also dangerous under certain conditions.  If you take certain medications, you may be unaware that you’re at a heightened risk of developing heat-related issues such as heat stroke. 

As the summer heat starts to climb here on the East Coast, the team at Bridgewater Primary Care & Cardiology, LLC, wants patients to know their risk and take steps to prevent developing heat stroke.

Our team cares for patients throughout Southeastern Massachusetts, providing exceptional primary care and cardiology services to help you avoid serious complications, such as medication-induced heat illness.

How heat stroke happens

When temperatures outside rise, your body senses the temperature change and activates sweat glands to cool you down. However, when the temperature rises to dangerous levels of 104°F and above, the combination of heat and humidity can prevent your body from cooling effectively. 

Excessive heat that overwhelms your body’s responses is a medical emergency that can damage your brain, heart, and kidneys. Common heat stroke symptoms include: 

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Flushed skin

In severe cases, prolonged exposure to excessive heat can cause unconsciousness, and if not treated promptly, heat stroke can lead to organ failure or death.

Medications that increase heat sensitivity

Several common medications can interfere with your body’s ability to regulate temperature or stay hydrated, making a heat wave worse for you. These include:

• Diuretics
• Anticholinergics
• Beta blockers
• Antidepressants
• Antipsychotics
• Stimulants

If you're taking any of these, your body may have a harder time adjusting to heat or staying properly hydrated, both of which are key factors in preventing heat stroke.

What you can do to stay safe

You don’t need to stop taking your medications to protect yourself from heat-related illness. Staying hydrated is essential, making it crucial to drink water regularly, not just when you feel thirsty. 

This is especially important if you’re on medications that increase fluid loss. Don’t change or stop taking your medications on your own. Continue taking your medications as prescribed and consult with your provider if you have concerns. 

It’s wise to avoid being outdoors during peak heat hours, typically between 10am and 4pm If you must go outside, wear breathable, lightweight clothing and protect yourself from direct sun with a wide-brimmed hat. At home, use fans or air conditioning to keep your environment cool, and take cold showers if you begin to feel overheated.

Pay attention to warning signs like dizziness, nausea, or sudden fatigue. These symptoms could signal that your body is overheating. Take these signs seriously and get to an area where you can cool down and rehydrate.

Talk to your provider before peak summer arrives

If you’re taking medications that may increase your heat sensitivity, it’s a good idea to discuss your concerns with your health care provider before the weather heats up. The Bridgewater Primary Care & Cardiology, LLC, team can review your medication list and discuss how your medication may impact your ability to tolerate high temperatures. 

In some cases, minor adjustments or additional monitoring may be necessary to ensure your safety and comfort. We also offer personalized care plans that take into account seasonal factors, such as heat exposure, particularly for patients with heart conditions, diabetes, or other chronic illnesses. 

Taking time now to review your health and medications can help prevent avoidable complications in the hotter months ahead.

Monitor your health this summer

If you’re taking medication that increases your risk for heat-related illness, our team at Bridgewater Primary Care & Cardiology, LLC, can help you navigate the summer months safely. Contact our office to schedule an appointment for medication management, primary care, and cardiology services. 

Trust our team to help you maintain your health year-round. Schedule your appointment today.