This past week summer has really made its presence known and we are starting to see heat-related illness and injury in Loyola’s immediate care centers. Knowing how to beat the heat can reduce your risks of heat exhaustion and stroke and keep you out of the clinic.
Heat stroke is a common problem this time of year. It is a potentially fatal condition that occurs when your core body temperature is elevated to 104 degrees F or greater. It causes abnormal mental status and can lead to organ damage.
Heat exhaustion is another common condition we see in the summer, but it’s different from heat stroke since body temperature elevations are less than 104 degrees and symptoms are milder.
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Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion may include fatigue, headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, pale skin, rapid heart rate and low blood pressure. Unlike heat stroke, people with heat exhaustion maintain normal mental status.
Heat stroke can occur from extensive hot and/or humid weather exposure especially in the setting of physical activity/exertion and poor fluid hydration. The elderly, children, people with chronic disease and those who are frequently exposed to hot weather have the highest risk of developing heat stroke.
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Since heat stroke is a medical emergency, it is critical to recognize the signs and symptoms quickly! Signs and symptoms of heat stroke are temperature greater than 104 degrees with:
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Hot skin and redness
- Rapid breathing and heartbeat
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Muscle cramps or weakness
- Confusion, difficulty thinking
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
If someone has signs of heat stroke, call 9-1-1 immediately! While awaiting the ambulance, it is helpful to move the affected person to a cooler place, remove excess clothing and apply ice packs, if available.
In the hospital, intravenous fluids and rapid cooling measures are provided as well as additional testing and treatment for any complications that develop.
Although heat stroke can be fatal, it can be prevented. Some great tips include:
Keep yourself adequately hydrated with water or low sugar sports drinks
Avoid alcohol and caffeine with increased heat exposure
Keep the body cool: move into shaded or air-conditioned areas, use a portable fan
Wear loose clothing and remove any excess clothing
