Heatwaves increase risks for individuals on specific medications

Medical experts and health organizations are warning that certain common medications can impair the body's ability to regulate temperature, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses during extreme heatwaves. Specifically, medications used to treat depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), high blood pressure, and heart conditions may heighten the risk of dehydration and other heat-related complications.

Heat stress occurs when the body or plants are exposed to temperatures exceeding their capacity to function efficiently. In humans, the body relies on sweating to cool down; however, high humidity can make sweat evaporation less effective, causing the body to retain heat. Symptoms of heat stress include extreme thirst, sweating, fatigue, headache, and dizziness.

Beyond human health, heat stress also impacts agriculture. High temperatures can disrupt a plant's water balance and cause stomata to close to prevent water loss, which simultaneously limits the carbon dioxide intake necessary for photosynthesis, potentially slowing growth and reducing crop efficiency.