QUESTION: I have diabetes and high blood pressure. While I take medication, I have also adopted a healthier lifestyle, including daily outdoor walks, swimming, and other activities with my family. Recently, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. With the rising temperatures, I am concerned about how the heat will affect me. Are there any precautions I should take to stay safe?
ANSWER: It is crucial to keep your body cool during extremely high temperatures, regardless of your medical conditions. As a cancer patient, it is even more important to take extra care during the hot summer months since cancer treatments can make your body more sensitive to the sun and heat.
Extreme heat can take a toll on your body, mind, and spirit. A recent study found an increased number of people seeking emergency assistance for psychiatric and mental health-related concerns during periods of high heat.
In addition to physical discomfort caused by heat and sweating, irritability is a common side effect of extreme temperatures. Poor sleep quality due to the heat can also result in fatigue, leaving individuals feeling stressed and on edge.
The heat can also impact medications. Some medications may become degraded during temperature changes. You mentioned having diabetes, and if you take insulin, it is crucial to store it in a place where the temperature remains stable.
Certain medications can increase your risk of heat-related issues. Diuretics, for example, can lead to dehydration, mental status changes, and confusion due to increased urine output. High blood pressure medications, antihistamines, and certain psychiatric medicines can affect your regulation of heat, ability to sense overheating, and ability to sweat.
For individuals undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatment for cancer, excessive sun exposure is the biggest risk. Radiation therapy can cause dryness, itching, redness, and blistering of the skin. Sun exposure can worsen these effects and lead to increased discomfort. Some chemotherapy drugs can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, increasing the risk of sunburn and skin damage.
While it is essential to continue enjoying your favorite activities for your quality of life, consider modifying them during the summer months. Can you walk indoors, such as at an air-conditioned shopping plaza? Are there alternative family activities you can enjoy, like visiting a museum?
If you must be outdoors, plan your activities for cooler times of the day and follow these tips to protect yourself and your family:
— Stay out of direct sunlight, especially during the peak hours when the sun is strongest, typically between noon and 4 p.m. Seek shade if you plan to be outside.
— Dress appropriately. Opt for lightweight, loose-fitting clothes. If you go outside, wear protective clothing that covers your arms, legs, and neck. Use a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to shield your face and eyes from the sun.
— Wear sunscreen and remember to reapply. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF). Reapply after several hours, sweating, or being in water. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to your face and ears.
— Stay hydrated. Hydration is vital during hot months. Drink water regularly throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Carry a water bottle with you and take small sips frequently. Avoid alcohol. If you are working or playing outdoors, consider adding an electrolyte drink after the second or third bottle of water to replenish your salt and water levels.
Pay attention to your body. Heat illness begins with heat exhaustion, characterized by symptoms like nausea, tiredness, dryness, and thirst. If left untreated, heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke.
Since everyone is unique, it is crucial to stay in touch with your healthcare team to discuss the specifics of your therapy and any additional recommendations. With a little extra awareness, you can continue to enjoy a good quality of life and remain healthy during warmer weather. — Compiled by Mayo Clinic staff
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