Here's a look at how the hot weather affects people taking SSRIs
DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- Here's a look at how the hot weather can affect people who take medication, including Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors, mostly referred to as SSRIs.
SSRIs are antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications.
Common SSRIs are Prozac, Zoloft and Lexapro. Nearly 13% of adults in the U.S. take these medications, according to the CDC.
Because SSRIs affect serotonin levels, they can interfere with the hypothalamus, which is the part of the brain that acts as your internal thermostat.
This can cause two main problems: Impaired sweating and impaired cooling.
Symptoms of heat stroke and heat exhaustion include nausea, headaches, muscle cramps, increased pulse, confusion, dry skin and high body temperature.
It is especially important to know the symptoms when taking SSRIs.
Dr. Glatter, from Hofstra University, offers the following tips for those who take SSRIs in the heat:
- Stay indoors as much as possible when the feels-like temperatures are over 90
- Wear light and loose-fitting clothing
- Limit outdoor activities
- Stay hydrated and increase your intake of electrolytes
He also adds that if you feel a rapid heartbeat, start sweating excessively, develop nausea, dizziness, or leg cramping, immediately get into air conditioning and have someone call 911.
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