@drshazmamithani: With the rising temperatures in the summer months, it’s important to be aware that there are some medications that can increase your risk of heat related illness when exposed to hot temperatures. 1. SSRIs - these medications can prevent sweating and also have an effect on the brain’s “thermostat.” 2. Some blood pressure medications (beta blockers and calcium channel blockers) - these can alter the blood flow in the body, making it less efficient at cooling. 3. Antihistamines (for allergies and nausea)- these can reduce sweating, one of the body’s most efficient cooling mechanisms. 4. Anti-Parkinson’s medications - these can reduce sweating, one of the body’s most efficient cooling mechanisms. 5. Stimulants (OTC decongestants, recreational drugs) - these can change skin bloodflow, reducing the ability for the skin to dissipate heat. 6. Diuretics - can worsen dehydration. If you’re taking any of these medications, it’s even more important for you to stay cool and limit time and exertion in the heat. The time it takes you to get closer to heat stroke could be less than someone who isn’t taking these medications. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the signs of heat illness so you know what to look out for. You should never stop or adjust a medication on your own without talking to your health provider first. Do you take any of these medications? Have you noticed that your tolerance of heat has changed? Let me know in the comments. . . . . . #heatwave #heatillness #heatstroke #ssri #dehydration
