As the Summer holidays approach and temperatures are set to rise, Brits across the nation are eagerly anticipating a much-needed break from their daily routines. However, while many are already stocking up on sun-cream and prepping their beachwear, it’s important to note that hot weather can pose a risk for individuals taking certain common medications.
Medications used to treat conditions such as high blood pressure, allergies, and mental health disorders could have an unwanted side-effect: they may make it harder for patients to stay hydrated or cool down effectively in hot weather. This means that soaring temperatures could potentially be dangerous, or even fatal, for those who aren’t adequately prepared.
So, which medications increase heat sensitivity?
Diuretics, a type of medication often prescribed to treat heart failure, high blood pressure, or kidney disease, could cause issues. These drugs increase urination frequency, which, while beneficial for these conditions, can lead to dehydration or an imbalance of electrolytes like magnesium, potassium, or salt.
This makes it more difficult for the body to regulate its temperature, reports Gloucestershire Live.
This can prove especially risky during a heatwave. Heat is already a common cause of dehydration, so those using this medication are advised to maintain high water intake and stay alert for signs of dehydration like headaches, dizziness, dark coloured urine and feeling thirsty.
Another medication that could spell trouble in hot weather includes the Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors), typically prescribed for high blood pressure patients. As the mercury rises, these individuals may be more prone to fainting or falling.
Additionally, this medicine cloaks the sensation of thirst, making it harder to recognise when dehydration may be setting in.
Beta-blockers, too, impose a risk. Not only do they heighten your odds of fainting and losing your footing, but they also hinder the body’s sweating ability.
This poses concerns about overheating due to insufficient cooling. This side effect isn’t unique to Beta-blockers; some antipsychotic medications used for mental health illnesses such as haloperidol, olanzapine and risperidone also dim the sweating capacity.
