Heat + Humidity Boost Chances for Heat Stroke: Signs, Treatment

Rockville, MD — The first heat wave of the summer is settling in over Marylnad, prompting officials to warn residents of the signs of heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

You can expect temperatures in the mid-90s through Saturday with the "feels like" heat index hitting at times over 100 degrees from Baltimore to Washington, DC, on Thursday and Friday, forecasters say.

During hot, humid summer weather, the body's internal temperature can rise and can result in heat exhaustion and heatstroke. If not treated quickly, heat exhaustion can progress into heat stroke, which requires immediate medical care and can be fatal, according to Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services.

• SEE ALSO: Hottest Temps of 2016: Maryland Weather Forecast This Week

The sizzling heat will also worsen air conditions across several counties. The Maryland Department of the Environment has issued a “code orange” air quality alert for Wednesday, July 6. That means the air may be unhealthy for sensitive groups—such as children, older adults, asthmatics and those with heart and lung problems—due to pollution concentrations.

The code orange air quality alert includes Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Harford, Howard, Montgomery and Prince George's counties.

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Here are signs of heat stress to look for and what to do if you become overheated.

Signs and Symptoms:

Heat Exhaustion

• Severe thirst
• Muscle weakness
• Nausea, sometimes vomiting
• Irritability
• Headache
• Increased sweating
• Cool clammy skin
• Elevation of body temperature to 105 degrees Fahrenheit
• Weak, rapid pulse

Heat Stroke

• Severe, throbbing headache
• Weakness, dizziness or confusion
• Difficulty breathing
• Decreased responsiveness or loss of consciousness
• Little or no sweating
• Flush, hot, dry skin
• Elevation of body temperature to 105 degrees Fahrenheit

What to Do:

If the person has a temperature of 105 degrees Fahrenheit or more or shows signs and symptoms of heatstroke, seek emergency medical care immediately. In cases of heat exhaustion and while waiting for help:

• Move the person to a cool place indoors or under the shade of a tree.
• Loosen clothing.
• Have the person lie down. Elevate feet slightly.
• If the person is alert, place in cool (not cold) bath water.
• If the person is alert, give frequent sips of cool, clear fluids (clear juice or sports drinks are best).
• If the person is vomiting, turn his or her body to the side to prevent choking.
• Monitor the person's temperatures.

Excessive heat is especially dangerous to the elderly, the young, those with existing medical conditions and those that work outdoors. Here's what to do to avoid heat stress:

Pre-hydrate, hydrate and re-hydrate. During hot weather you will need to increase your fluid intake, regardless of your activity level. Drink plenty of fluids in advance, during and after activities and don’t wait until you're thirsty to hydrate.

Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect some of the sun’s energy. Limit your direct exposure to the sun and wear a hat for extra protection.

Monitor those at high risk. Extreme heat can be hazardous to your health and although anyone can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others. Those most at risk for heat-related illnesses include children, older adults, those that work or exercise outside and those with pre-existing medical conditions.

Children and cars - use common sense. Never, ever leave infants, children, pets or the elderly in a parked car where temperatures can become life-threatening in minutes, even with the windows rolled down. And, hot interior surfaces of a car can burn a child’s skin. Before you put your child in a car that has been parked in a warm/sunny spot, check the temperature of the car seat or upholstery first.

Avoid strenuous activity. Take regular breaks when exercising or engaged in physical activity on warm days. If you recognize that you, or someone else, is showing signs of a heat-related illness, stop the activity immediately, find a cool place to rest, hydrate and seek medical attention if necessary.

Be a good neighbor. Isolated, elderly adults are at a much higher risk of health-related issues. Be a good neighbor and take a minute to check in with your neighbors.

Remember your pets. Hot weather can affect the well-being of pets making them susceptible to overheating which can lead to very dangerous heat stroke. Always provide a source of water and a cool, ventilated place for your pet. Leaving your pet inside a parked car, even for a few minutes, can be fatal. The inside of a car can reach 120 degrees in a matter of minutes.

Stay indoors, if possible. Stay indoors and, if possible, in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, consider going to the shopping mall, community center or public library. Even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you return to the heat.