The risk for heat-related illness and death may increase among people using the following drugs: Psychotropics, which affect psychic function, behavior, or experience (e.g. haloperidol or chlorpromazine); Medications for Parkinson’s disease, because they can inhibit perspiration; Tranquilizers such as phenothiazines, butyrophenones, and thiozanthenes; and Diuretic medications or “water pills” that affect fluid balance in the … Continued
Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath or moving to an air-conditioned place is a much better way to cool off. Air conditioning is the strongest protective factor against heat-related illness. Exposure to air conditioning for … Continued
Wear as little clothing as possible when you are at home. Choose lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. In the hot sun, a wide-brimmed hat will provide shade and keep the head cool. If you must go outdoors, be sure to apply sunscreen 30 minutes prior to going out and continue to reapply according to the package … Continued
People suffer heat-related illness when the body’s temperature control system is overloaded. The body normally cools itself by sweating, but under some conditions, sweating just isn’t enough. In such cases, a person’s body temperature rises rapidly. Very high body temperatures may damage the brain or other vital organs. Several factors affect the body’s ability to … Continued
Those at greatest risk for heat-related illness include infants and children up to four years of age, people 65 years of age and older, people who are overweight, and people who are ill or on certain medications.
