Stay safe amid extreme heat this summer

Although blistering temperatures in the summer do not come as a surprise to Texans, heat waves can also bring about serious health risks.  

As the temperature begins to creep into the triple digits, it is important to take precautions when spending time outdoors to avoid heat exhaustion or stroke.

Heat Stroke

According to Coryell Health, heat stroke is the most serious form of a heat-related illness and can be fatal if left untreated. Heat stroke occurs when the body can no longer control its temperature, usually after prolonged exposure to high temperatures in combination with dehydration.

 Symptoms of heat stroke include:

• Body temperature above 103°F
• Red, hot, and dry skin with no sweating
• Rapid, strong pulse
• Throbbing headache
• Dizziness and nausea
• Confusion, disorientation, and fainting

While heat stroke can happen to anyone, individuals most at risk include those with underlying health issues, who are over 65 years old, who care for children under four years old, or who are overweight or diabetic. 

If you or someone nearby begins to experience a heat stroke, seek immediate help by calling 911. Follow additional procedures to try to cool down until paramedics arrive, such as:

• Move into the shade or indoors.
• Remove excess clothing.
• Fan air over the patient while wetting their skin with water.
• Use cold water, ice packs, fans, or wet towels on the head and neck area to relieve symptoms.

Heat Exhaustion

While heat exhaustion does not usually require immediate medical attention, Coryell Health explains that it can quickly lead to heat stroke. According to The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), heat exhaustion is the body’s response to an excessive loss of water and salt, mainly through sweating.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, thirst, heavy sweating, and elevated body temperature.

To treat heat exhaustion, NIOSH recommends:

• Visit a clinic or emergency room for medical evaluation and treatment.
• Call 911 if medical care is unavailable.
• Leave the hot area and drink liquids.
• Remove unnecessary clothing, including shoes and socks.
• Cool down with cold compresses or wash the head, face, and neck with cold water.
• Take frequent sips of cool water.

Heat safety

High temperatures can damage the brain and other vital organs, Coryell Health explains. Before spending time outdoors or in a hot environment, it’s essential to know about personal health concerns and pay attention to how you feel in the heat.

To minimize the risk of a heat-related illness, Coryell Health recommends the following precautions:

• Avoid physical activity in hot conditions.
• If you plan on doing physical activity in the heat, ensure air conditioning is nearby or wait until cooler parts of the day to go outside.
• Don’t overwork yourself.
• Drink plenty of water (even when you’re not thirsty).
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.