Certain heart medications can increase the risk of dangerous dehydration in seniors, according to an advisory from the American Heart Association.
People older than 50 face a high risk for heat-related dehydration. Heart medications further exaggerate the body’s response to heat and can cause people to feel ill in extreme heat, said Robert A. Harrington, M.D., president of the Dallas-based health agency. These medications include: angiotensin receptor blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers and diuretics, which deplete the body of sodium.
While it’s important for heart patients to continue taking their medications as scheduled, they should consult with a doctor about heat safety and take the following precautions, Harrington advised:
- Drink water before, during and after activities. Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages.
- Take regular breaks during activities: Stop for a few minutes, hydrate and start again.
- Avoid the outdoors in the early afternoon.
- Choose well-ventilated shoes and look for socks that repel perspiration.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing in breathable fabrics such as cotton, or a newer fabric that repels sweat. Add a hat and sunglasses.
- Apply a water-resistant sunscreen with at least a 15 sun protection factor, and reapply it every two hours.
