08 | 1 | 2007 Posted By Regan Zambri & Long

Some Medications Increase the Risk of Heat Illness

Summer heat can jeopardize anyone's health, but according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, taking certain medications can actually increase your risk of heat-related illness. The agency advises that the following types of drugs can make you more vulnerable to the heat: 
  • "Psychotropic drugs which affect behavior, experience, or psychic function (i.e., anti-depressants, anti-psychotics, mood stabilizers, etc.). 
  • Medications for Parkinson's Disease, as they can keep you from sweating.
  • Tranquilizers (i.e., Haldol, etc.)
  • Diuretics (or "water pills") that affect your body's fluid balance"
They also advise that regardless of your activity level, you should increase your fluid intake when the weather heats up, and drink more water than your thirst indicates.   During heavy exercise in hot environments, you should drink 16 to 36 ounces of fluid each hour -- and not alcohol.  Because your body uses water to break down alcohol, your body actually becomes more dehydrated when you drink alcoholic beverages.

The CDC lists the following as symptoms of heat stroke:
  • "An extremely high body temperature (above 103°F)
  • Red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating)
  • Rapid, strong pulse
  • Throbbing headache
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Confusion
  • Unconsciousness"
If you see someone who exhibits these signs, call 911 immediately.  Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if it isn't treated soon.

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