How to recognize and respond to heat-related health emergencies
Every year, more than 1,200 people in the United States die due to heat-related conditions like heat stroke and heat exhaustion. And while risk is higher in the hot summer months, it’s always important to stay cool, stay hydrated and look out for warning signs of heat stroke and heat exhaustion.
This can be especially important for the very young and adults older than 65.
What Is Heat Stroke?
Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition where the body overheats quickly and loses the ability to control its temperature. When this happens, a person’s temperature can rise to 106°F or higher in only 10-15 minutes. Without emergency treatment, heat stroke can cause permanent disability and even death.
Symptoms of Heat Stroke
- Very high temperature
- Hot, dry skin
- Profuse sweating
- Headache
- Nausea
- Confusion and/or dizziness
- Slurred speech
- Loss of consciousness
What To Do in the Event of Heat Stroke
- Call 911 immediately!
- Move the person to a shaded, cool place and remove outer clothing
- Lower their temperature with a cold water or ice bath. If a bath is not available, soak their clothes with cold water and lay cold wet cloths on exposed skin
- Keep the air around them circulating
What Is Heat Exhaustion?
Heat exhaustion occurs when the body overheats and loses too much water and salt, such as through excessive sweating. Heat exhaustion is easily preventable and treatable but, if untreated, can quickly progress into life-threatening heat stroke. It most often affects the elderly and those with high blood pressure.
Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion
- High temperature
- Heavy sweating
- Headache and/or nausea
- Dizziness
- Irritability
- Weakness
- Thirst
- Decreased urine output
What To Do in the Event of Heat Exhaustion
- Move to a shaded, cool place and loosen clothing
- Place cold wet cloths on the skin or lower temperature with a cool bath
- Sip water or sports drinks
- Seek immediate medical help if vomiting or if symptoms get worse or last longer than one hour!
Prevent Heat Exhaustion & Heat Stroke Before They Strike
When protecting yourself against heat exhaustion and heat stroke, a little common sense goes a long way.
- Drink plenty of water (and go easy on the alcohol)
- Rest often and cool off in the shade
- Wear loose-fitting and light clothing
- Avoid activity during the hottest part of the day
Need Medical Assistance?
If someone is suffering from heat stroke call 911 immediately.
For non-life-threatening injuries and conditions, seek medical attention at one of Sarasota Memorial’s seven Urgent Care Centers.
Written by Sarasota Memorial copywriter Philip Lederer, MA, who crafts a variety of external communications for the healthcare system. SMH’s in-house wordsmith, Lederer earned his Master’s degree in Public Administration and Political Philosophy from Morehead State University, KY, and wears jeans to the beach.