Extreme heat can exacerbate health conditions and lifestyle choices

When the heat goes up, so do many visits to the ER from patients with chronic health conditions... and lifestyle choices.

Cardiovascular disease

Heat can increase the risk of heart attack, especially for people with pre-existing cardiovascular disease. 

Respiratory disease

Heat can worsen asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory illnesses, and can increase the risk of respiratory infections. 

Migraines

Dehydration can trigger migraines, so people who get migraines should drink extra water or electrolyte beverages when it's hot. 

Autoimmune conditions

Exposure to direct sunlight and UV rays can aggravate autoimmune conditions like lupus, causing redness, heat, pain, or swelling. Heat can also increase fatigue and dehydration, which can worsen joint pain. 

Mental health

Heat can create cognitive issues and problems with mental health. The body produces cortisol, a stress hormone, to cope with the stress of excessive heat, which can lead to anxiety. 

Cannabis/Alcohol Use

The summer heat and dehydration can exacerbate the effects of drugs and alcohol, resulting in more significant intoxication and potentially more severe health issues.

Cannabis hyperemesis syndrome ("CHS") is a condition that causes frequent vomiting (throwing up). It can happen in people who have been using cannabis (marijuana) regularly for at least a year. It is sometimes called "cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome."