Watch out for signs of heat stroke

Many states across the U.S. have reached historic, record-breaking high temperatures. High temperatures can lead to heat-related illnesses; however, these illnesses are preventable. During heatwaves, it is important to know how to stay safe to prevent heat-related illnesses.

Heat stroke is the most serious, life-threatening illness caused by extreme heat. It happens when individuals are overexposed to the sun or heat, and the body cannot control its own temperature. The body’s temperature rapidly increases and is unable to cool down. Heat stroke requires immediate emergency attention as it can be fatal or cause permanent disability.

Who is at risk for heat stroke?

Certain populations are at higher risk of getting a heat stroke.

Infants and children are at a higher risk of experiencing heat stroke. Make sure to keep them hydrated and cool. Never leave children in a parked car as they can reach dangerously high temperatures quickly, even if the windows are open. 

Individuals with chronic medical conditions are less likely to sense and respond to rising temperatures and medications can worsen the effect of extreme heat. Those with obesity, heart disease, mental illness, and poor blood circulation are at high risk. 

Older adults, 65 years and older, are more likely to have chronic medical conditions and take prescription medicines that affect the body’s response to heat. 

People who work outdoors, and athletes are also at high risk for heat stroke as they are more likely to become dehydrated. While these populations face a higher risk of getting a heat stroke, anyone can be affected so it is important to take precautions to stay safe during hot temperatures.

Safety tips to prevent a heat stroke

Heat stroke is preventable. Try to avoid spending time outdoors when the temperature is high and stay in air-conditioned areas. Learn what steps to take to avoid a heat stroke. 

• Stay hydrated and avoid drinking alcohol or caffeine.
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothes.
• Never leave children or pets in a car.
• If you’re working outdoors or participating in outdoor activities, take breaks.
• Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a hat and sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or more.
• Avoid being outdoors during the hottest part of the day. Plan outdoor activities before 10:00 and after 6:00pm.

Symptoms of heatstroke

People who are experiencing a heatstroke can have symptoms such as:

• High body temperature of 103 degrees Fahrenheit or higher
• Muscle cramping
• Fatigue
• Vomiting or nausea
• Loss of consciousness
• Headache
• Increased heart rate
• Hot, dry skin
• Altered mental state or behavior (confusion, seizures, slurred speech)

“Heat stroke is the most severe type of heat related illness and is a true medical emergency,” says Dr. Eric Hill, an emergency room physician at The Medical Center of Aurora. “It is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical care. If you have any concerns for heat stroke, you should call 911 or go immediately to your closest emergency department for treatment.”

After calling for emergency medical care, try to lower the affected individual’s body temperature. Move them away from the sun and into a cool, shaded area, and remove any excessive clothing. Cool the individual as fast as possible by placing cold, wet cloths on their skin, circulating air around them, and giving them a cold water or ice bath, if possible. 

Heat stroke treatment

The main focus of heat stroke treatment at the hospital is rapidly cooling the body while maintaining airway protection, circulation, and breathing.

Time is critical for heat stroke patients. Patients that receive cooling treatment 30 minutes from collapse have significantly better survival rates than those who wait too long to receive treatment. There are possible complications that can affect patients depending on the severity of their case and other health factors. Some may include residual brain damage, hypotension, and organ dysfunctions.

After heat stroke treatment, the body’s temperature will go through some changes in the following weeks. It is recommended that you do not exercise for at least a week after treatment and get a lab test to evaluate your organ function. Individuals who have suffered from heat stroke have a higher risk of getting heat illness again so take precautions during high-temperature weather. 

Be mindful of the high temperatures and extreme heat. Protect yourself and your loved ones and check up on those that are vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.

Find the HealthOne Emergency Room near you.

Sources:

• CDC. Natural Disasters and Severe Weather. Heat and People with Chronic Medical Conditions.
• CDC. Natural Disasters and Severe Weather. Heat and Older Adults.
• CDC. Natural Disasters and Severe Weather. Extreme Heat.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Natural Disasters and Severe Weather. Heat and Infants and Children.
• Familydoctor.org. Heat Exhaustion and Heatstroke.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Heat Stress — Heat Related Illness.
• CDC. Heat Stress — Heat Related Illness.
• Gauer, R., Meyers, B. (April 2019). Heart-Related Illnesses. American Family Physician.