By The Chronicle Staff

As summer settles into Logan County, many residents are spending long days at the Logan County Fairgrounds, local parks, ball fields, construction sites and farms.

Whether you're working outside, cheering on a grandchild at a baseball game, or enjoying a weekend cookout, July's heat and humidity can take a toll.

Most people remember sunscreen, sunglasses and a bottle of water. But there's another summer safety concern that often goes unnoticed: the medications many of us take every day.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), certain prescription and over-the-counter medications can make it harder for the body to stay cool, increasing the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke.

Health officials, including the Ohio Department of Health, encourage residents to be especially mindful of heat safety during periods of high temperatures.

Why medications matter in hot weather

Your body has several natural ways to cool itself. It sweats to release heat, increases blood flow to the skin, and signals thirst when it's time to replace lost fluids.

Some medications can interfere with these normal responses. Others cause the body to lose fluids more quickly or make it harder to recognize dehydration until symptoms become more serious.

That doesn't mean these medications are unsafe or should be stopped. In fact, many are essential to managing chronic health conditions. It simply means people taking them should be aware of the added risks during periods of extreme heat.

Medications that may increase heat sensitivity

Several commonly prescribed medications can affect how the body responds to high temperatures.

Diuretics, often called "water pills," help treat high blood pressure, heart disease, and swelling by increasing urination. While effective, they can also increase the risk of dehydration if fluids aren't replaced.

Some blood pressure medications, including ACE inhibitors, ARBs, and certain beta blockers, may reduce the body's ability to adjust to hot weather or contribute to dehydration.

Certain antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anti-anxiety medications may interfere with sweating or the body's internal temperature regulation.

Older antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), can reduce sweating, making it more difficult for the body to cool itself effectively.

Stimulant medications used to treat ADHD may increase body temperature or reduce heat tolerance during strenuous activity.

People with diabetes should also be aware that hot weather can affect blood sugar levels, and some diabetes medications may contribute to dehydration. Staying hydrated and monitoring blood glucose as directed become even more important during the summer months.

Heat can damage medications, too

It's not just people who can be affected by high temperatures.

Some medications—including insulin, EpiPens, nitroglycerin, certain inhalers, and some liquid medications—can lose effectiveness if left inside a hot vehicle or stored outside their recommended temperature range.

Even on a day in the mid-80s, the temperature inside a parked car can quickly climb well above 120 degrees.

Always follow storage instructions on the prescription label, and if you suspect a medication has been exposed to excessive heat, consult your pharmacist before using it.

Know the warning signs

Heat exhaustion can develop gradually and should never be ignored.

Common symptoms include: heavy sweating; dizziness or lightheadedness; muscle cramps; fatigue or weakness; headache; nausea; rapid heartbeat; dark-colored urine.

Without treatment, heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke—a medical emergency.

Call 911 immediately if someone becomes confused, loses consciousness, stops sweating despite being overheated, or has a body temperature of 104 degrees or higher.

Who should be extra careful?

Anyone can become overheated, but some people face greater risks, including: adults over age 65; young children and infants; people with heart disease; individuals with diabetes; people with kidney disease; outdoor workers; athletes; and anyone taking multiple prescription medications

Checking on elderly neighbors, friends, or relatives during periods of extreme heat can make a meaningful difference.

If you're unsure whether one of your medications increases your sensitivity to heat, ask your pharmacist or physician. They can explain any precautions you should take while continuing your treatment safely. ■