Extreme Heat Can Increase Medication-Related Health Risks
Cartersville, Ga. (Aug. 13, 2026) — As Georgia continues to experience periods of extreme heat, physicians at Piedmont are encouraging residents to be aware that some commonly prescribed medications may increase the risk of heat-related illnesses and complications. According to Mark Senger, D.O., Chief Medical Officer at Piedmont Cartersville Medical Center, patients taking medications for high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes and kidney conditions should take extra precautions during hot weather.
“Many people understand the importance of staying hydrated and limiting time outdoors during extreme heat, but they may not realize that certain medications can affect how the body responds to high temperatures,” said Dr. Senger. “Some medications can increase the risk of dehydration, dizziness, fainting and other heat-related complications, making it especially important to pay attention to warning signs and take preventive measures.” Dr. Senger advises patients to speak with their healthcare provider if they have questions about how their medications may affect them during periods of extreme heat. Patients should never stop taking prescribed medications without consulting their physician.
According to Dr. Senger, several factors may increase health risks during hot weather, including:
- Certain blood pressure and heart medications can affect the body’s ability to tolerate dehydration.
- Some diabetes medications may increase fluid loss, raising the risk of dehydration.
- Older adults and individuals with chronic health conditions are especially vulnerable to heat-related complications.
- Medications should be stored according to label instructions, as excessive heat can affect their effectiveness.
Dr. Senger encourages families to regularly check on elderly relatives, neighbors and others who may be at increased risk during periods of extreme heat.
“Something as simple as a phone call, a visit or making sure someone has access to air conditioning and water can make a significant difference,” Dr. Senger said. “Heat-related illness can develop quickly, especially among older adults and those with underlying medical conditions.”
Warning signs of heat-related illness may include excessive thirst, dizziness, confusion, headaches, nausea, muscle cramps, rapid heartbeat and fainting. Individuals experiencing severe symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
To stay safe during hot weather, Piedmont recommends drinking plenty of water, avoiding strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day, wearing lightweight clothing and seeking air-conditioned environments whenever possible.
To schedule an appointment at Piedmont Cartersville, go to http://www.piedmont.org/cartersville.
About Piedmont
Piedmont is empowering Georgians by changing health care. We continue to fuel Georgia’s growth through safe, cost-effective, high-quality care close to home through an integrated health care system that provides a hassle-free, unified experience. We are a private, not-for-profit organization that for centuries has sought to make a positive difference in every life we touch in the communities we serve. Across our 2,000 physical locations we care for more than 4.5 million patients and serve communities that comprise 85 percent of Georgia’s population. This includes 27 hospitals, 115 immediate care locations, 1,875 Piedmont Clinic physician practices and more than 3,900 Piedmont Clinic members. Our patients conveniently engage with Piedmont online, as they scheduled more than 657,000 online appointments and over 239,000 virtual visits. With nearly 50,000 care givers we are the largest Georgia-based private employer of Georgians, who all came for the job, but stayed for the people. In 2024 and 2023, Piedmont has earned recognition from Newsweek as one of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity and also as one of America's Greatest Workplaces for Women. In 2022, Forbes ranked Piedmont on its list of the Best Large Employers in the United States. Piedmont provided more than $844 million in community impact in Fiscal Year 2024.
For more information, or to book your next appointment, visit piedmont.org.
