Those medicines might be making you more sensitive to heat; here’s what to do

As summer temperatures soar in most parts of India, the combination of sweltering heat and certain prescription medications can prove to be dangerous, especially because they can make you more heat-sensitive.

This heightened sensitivity to heat can not only exacerbate the discomfort of hot weather but also put individuals at risk of serious heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Types of medications that increase sensitivity to heat

Dr Jagadish J Hiremath, public health intellectual, agrees, “Several types of medications can increase sensitivity to heat, affecting the body’s ability to regulate temperature.” Some of them are:

Antihypertensives (blood pressure medications): These include diuretics, beta-blockers, and calcium channel blockers. They can impair the body’s ability to cool itself by reducing sweating and blood flow to the skin, increasing the risk of dehydration and heat-related illnesses.

Psychiatric medications: Antidepressants, antipsychotics, and mood stabilisers like lithium can affect the body’s thermostat, impair sweating, and increase the risk of overheating.

Anticholinergics: Used for conditions such as urinary incontinence and allergies, these medications can reduce sweating and alter the body’s ability to cool down.

Diuretics: Often prescribed for heart conditions and high blood pressure, diuretics increase urine output, which can lead to dehydration and reduced blood volume, making it harder to regulate body temperature.

Stimulants: Medications for ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and certain diet pills can increase body temperature and reduce the perception of heat, raising the risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Antidepressants, antipsychotics, and mood stabilisers like lithium can affect the body’s thermostat, impair sweating, and increase the risk of overheating (Source: Freepik)

Symptoms of heat-related side effects from medications

If you’re taking any of these medications, there are some heat-related symptoms you should be aware of, according to Dr Hiremath. “These symptoms can indicate heat exhaustion or heat stroke, which require immediate medical attention,” he asserts. They are:

*Dizziness or fainting

*Excessive sweating or lack of sweating

*Rapid heartbeat

*Muscle cramps

*Nausea or vomiting

*Confusion or agitation

*Severe headache

Precautions and steps to stay safe

If you’re on heat-sensitive medications, Dr Hiremath suggests drinking plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. “Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you.”

He adds, “Spend time in air-conditioned environments during peak heat hours. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and use fans or cooling towels. Be vigilant for signs of heat-related illness and take action immediately if you notice symptoms.”

Dr Hiremath recommends consulting your doctor about adjusting the timing of your medication to minimise heat exposure effects. “Reduce strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day. Know the potential side effects of your medications and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.”

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