For those in the Northern Hemisphere, summer is here, and you might feel motivated to get outdoors and be more active. However, in some areas, the weather is becoming too hot for safe outdoor exercise.
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It's recommended that adults engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week. This can include activities like brisk walking, cycling, playing basketball, swimming, and even more intense household chores like mowing the lawn or vacuuming, which are considered functional fitness. But is it safe to do these activities in extreme heat?
How hot is too hot for outdoor exercise? Is it safer to exercise during certain times of the day? Should younger or older individuals be more cautious in the heat? And what about people with heart or kidney conditions or those on specific medications?
To help us stay healthy and safe in the summer heat, I spoke with CNN wellness analyst Dr. Leana Wen. Dr. Wen is an emergency physician and a clinical associate professor at George Washington University.
What precautions should people take before exercising in the summer?
Wen: Summer is a great time to get outside and be more active, but as temperatures rise to dangerous levels, it's important to be aware of the risk of heat-related illnesses. I recommend checking the weather forecast before heading out. If a heat wave is predicted, avoid exercising during the hottest part of the day, and instead, opt for early morning or evening workouts. If it's going to be hot all day and night, consider avoiding outdoor exercise altogether.
What can happen if people exercise too much in the heat?
Wen: Prolonged exercise or work in the heat can lead to symptoms of heat exhaustion, such as headache, weakness, dizziness, and nausea. If this occurs, it's crucial to get out of the sun and into a cool, air-conditioned space. If symptoms worsen and include confusion or vomiting, it may indicate heat stroke, which is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.
Who is most at risk during a heat wave?
Wen: The most vulnerable groups include the very young, the elderly, and those with chronic medical conditions. Heat can exacerbate issues related to underlying conditions like heart, lung, and kidney problems.
Do certain medications increase vulnerability during a heat wave?
Wen: Yes, some medications can increase risk during extreme heat. Common blood pressure medications, such as calcium channel blockers, beta-blockers, and diuretics, can increase the chances of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances in hot weather. Additionally, some medications for mental health conditions can interfere with the body's ability to regulate temperature, including certain antidepressants and stimulants for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Over-the-counter medications can also have similar effects. For instance, diphenhydramine and doxylamine, which are common antihistamines, can reduce sweating and affect the body’s temperature regulation.
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