Northern Westchester Hospital’s ER chief urges caution in heat

The Tri State area’s excessive heat and humidity poses health risks for the very young, the elderly and people who are susceptible to dehydration.

Jim Dwyer, MD, Chairman of Emergency Medicine at Northern Westchester Hospital urges people who are at risk for heat-related illnesses, to stay indoors in air conditioning. If people must be outdoors, he suggests doing so for only short periods of time; keeping hydrated by drinking plenty of water; wearing light, loose clothing; and staying in the shade as much as possible.
“Not only is the heat oppressive, it can be dangerous for the very young, the very old and people who take certain medications, such as diuretics for high blood pressure and, as a result, have low tolerance for the heat,” says Dr. Dwyer. “With temperature in the 90s and high humidity that makes it feel even hotter, staying indoors is the best protection. If that is impossible, people at risk should take precautions.”

Dr. Dwyer offers the following advice:

• Limit time outside and avoid strenuous outdoor activity, and stay indoors during the hottest part of the day.
• Signs that someone may be suffering from heat exhaustion include excessive sweating, a flushed face, fatigue, and clammy skin. These symptoms indicate that someone needs to get out of the heat immediately and begin rehydrating with water. Sitting in front of a fan and misting yourself will accelerate the cooling process.
• The symptoms of heat stroke are extreme. The most noticeable difference is that the body stops sweating. Other symptoms include fever, extreme fatigue, confusion, face, and skin that turns beet red. Heat stroke is a medical emergency that can be fatal. Call 911 and immediately start cooling the body with ice until help arrives.
• Make sure that children who are playing outside take water breaks every half hour and encourage them to cool off or play in shaded areas. Make sure they wear sunscreen and a hat. In addition to drinking water, healthy snacks, including fruits and vegetables, can help kids keep up their energy. If children want flavored beverages, provide drinks such as Gatorade, which has electrolytes, but avoid anything has caffeine, which can also be a diuretic and lead to dehydration
• Make sure children and teens are aware of the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
• Never leave children or pets alone in hot vehicles—even for a second.
• If you are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, there is no need to wear a mask unless it is required by state or local regulations or the business/venue you are visiting.

“In general, masks are not necessary outdoors regardless of vaccination status,” says Dr. Dwyer. “If you are in a crowded outdoor setting and are unvaccinated, or if the outdoor venue requires mask wearing (such as a concert), you may find yourself wearing a mask in very hot weather. Likewise, you may find yourself in a situation where you are required to wear a mask in a non-air conditioned indoor setting.”

To stay cool when wearing a mask, Dr. Dwyer advises the following:

• Choose a tightly woven cotton mask that is light in color. This will be breathable, soft and will absorb less heat than a dark mask.
• Carry spare masks as they will get sweaty in hot weather which will make them more uncomfortable.
• Find a safe place to intermittently remove your mask and drink water.

• Keep the rest of your body cool by wearing loose, lightweight clothes.