Health Tip: Who's at Risk for Heat Illness?
Heatstroke and heat exhaustion are potentially deadly conditions stemming from a dangerous rise in body temperature. While everyone is at risk of a heat-related illness, some people are especially vulnerable.
The U.S. National Safety Council says the following people should take extra care to keep cool and hydrated during the stifling heat of summer:
- Senior citizens.
- Babies and young children.
- Outdoor pets.
- People with heart conditions, circulatory problems or other chronic illnesses.
- Anyone who has to work outside in the mid-day heat.
- People who exercise outdoors frequently.
- People who take medication that affects sweat production.
- People who abuse alcohol and drugs.
Health Tip: Some Medications Can Help Trigger Heat-Related Illness
Heat exhaustion and heatstroke occur when the body becomes overheated and can't cool itself back down.
Some medications may increase your risk of heat-related illness. The American Academy of Family Physicians offers this list:
- Antihistamines to prevent allergy symptoms.
- Some medications to manage cough and cold symptoms.
- Some heart and blood pressure medications.
- Amphetamine diet pills.
- Irritable bowel and irritable bladder medicines.
- Laxatives.
- Water pills.
- Thyroid medications.
- Anti-seizure medications.
- Some medications used to manage mental health conditions.
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