SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) – By now, we all know the big 3 summer safety tips… wear sunscreen, drink plenty of liquids, and try to stay cool.
But there’s a lesser-known concern when it comes to the hot temperatures.
Specifically, those taking medication to support their mental health.
Western Mass News spoke to a local doctor about the need to be extra cautious in summer heat.
As much as we all look forward to summertime, the increase in temperatures can impact some of your prescription medications and that’s especially true if you’re taking it for mental health conditions.
“Often times folks are encouraged to take their medication regularly and as a result of that with the heat and not being mindful of hydration they can experience some weird side effects,” says Dr. Kenneth Richmond.
Dr. Richmond is the Medical Director at MiraVista Behavioral Health Center in Holyoke.
Those side effects can include heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke – in that degree of severity.
And in fact… the CDC estimates about 1,220 Americans die each year from extreme heat making it the leading weather-related cause of death in the United States per the National Weather Service.
Individuals who take medications that affect thermoregulation are among those at higher risk as the side effects from antipsychotics, muscle cramps, feeling hot, and irregular heartbeats are similar to those experienced with heat.
“So, being mindful that if somebody is on an antipsychotic medication – those are medicines that can contribute to someone having a similar presentation,” noted Dr. Richmond.
He says there are steps you can take to make sure you stay on your medication and stay cool, safe, and healthy when the temperatures rise.
First and foremost, talk to your doctor about any precautions you need to be aware of.
“Contact your healthcare provider and let them know, hey these are the type of symptoms you’re experiencing – some of those symptoms would include – hey my heart rate feels like it’s beating too fast, I’m sweaty or people are saying that I’m confused or you’re appearing confused to your loved ones. Or you just can’t get comfortable. You’re always hot, there’s sweating that’s happening. And more often than not, you’ll hear people saying “I don’t feel like myself. Something is off,” …” explained Dr. Richmond.
The CDC has an extreme heat guide on its website with tips on staying cool, identifying risk factors and knowing symptoms associated with overheating.
For a look at that information, CLICK HERE
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