The intense summer heat in New Orleans is raising health concerns for pregnant women and individuals on SSRIs, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, with medical professionals urging precautions to avoid serious complications.
Dr. Nicole Freehill, an associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at LSU New Orleans, highlighted the risks for expectant mothers.
“You can dehydrate very quickly without realizing it,” Freehill said.
She said that dehydration can lead to high heart rates, cramping, and contractions, which are warning signs of heat exhaustion.
Freehill stressed the importance of staying hydrated and taking breaks from the heat, and also others stepping in.
“Say you are at a family barbecue or a picnic, making sure that someone who’s expecting is in the shade,” Freehill said, “Bring them in the shade. Bring them a glass of water, a glass of lemonade. Make sure that they’re drinking, sitting down, resting, hydrating as much as possible.”
Hydration is also crucial for individuals on antidepressants.
“It can affect your, quote unquote, body thermostat and can cause you to sweat,” Spitale said.
He noted that heat regulation can be a challenge for those taking common medications such as Prozac, Celexa, Lexapro and Zoloft.
Both Freehill and Spitale recommend staying out of the heat whenever possible.
Medical professionals also suggest wearing light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, seeking shade and avoiding outdoor activities during peak sun hours.
If symptoms such as a heart rate above 110, faintness, nausea, or extreme pain occur, Freehill said to seek emergency medical care.
READ MORE:Heat risks for pregnant women and antidepressant users experts share safety tips
