Spotting the Signs of Heat Illness: Act Fast and Stay Safe

Sunshine and warmer temperatures are often associated with fun, healthy outdoor activities and fewer illnesses. However, summer can bring extremely hot weather for long periods, making it important to watch out for heat-related illnesses.

The CDC has reported that extreme heat events have long threatened public health in the United States, with increases in heat-wave death rates. Extreme heat has led to more hospital visits, especially for people with breathing, kidney, and heart problems. 

Common heat illnesses (such as heat exhaustion, heat stroke, heat rash, heat cramps, and sunburn) can affect anyone, regardless of their age, race, or ethnicity. Lauren Hodge, MD, primary care provider at Trinity Health Medical Group, Primary Care & Pediatrics – North Muskegon, says adults older than 65, children up to four years old, and people with chronic illnesses are at a higher risk.

During hot weather, even young and healthy individuals can experience complications when participating in strenuous physical activities.

Avoiding Heat Illnesses 

There are several simple ways to steer clear of heat-related illnesses:

• Limit your sun exposure and avoid the hours of most intense heat at midday
• Use sunscreen to avoid sunburn
• When in the sun, wear a hat or have access to an umbrella or other shade
• If beginning a vigorous activity or sport, pace yourself and take time to build up to more activity
• Never leave a child or pet unattended in a car, especially in a hot car
• Dress infants and children in cool, loose clothing, and shade their heads and faces from the sun
• Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, and do not drink alcoholic beverages

“You can experience heat illness even if you are not exposed to severe heat. Staying well-hydrated is important to lower the risk of heat illness, but it doesn’t always prevent it,” said Dr. Hodge.

Two of the most serious heat illnesses are heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Read: Summertime Water Safety for Children

Heat Exhaustion (mild to moderate heat illness)

Learn to recognize the symptoms of heat exhaustion:

• Core temperature may be normal or high – the person’s skin may be cool to the touch
• Rapid, strong, or weak pulse
• Fatigue
• Profuse sweating
• Cramps
• Vomiting
• Weakness
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fainting

If you notice someone with these symptoms, take the following course of action:

• Remove the person from the hot environment to a cool environment.
• Hydrate with water.
• Elevate the legs.
• Remove excess clothing.

It may take hours to recover, so do not leave the person unattended.

Heat Stroke (severe heat illness)

Heat stroke can cause permanent brain damage and even death. It is a medical emergency. If you notice someone with these symptoms, call 911 immediately:

• Skin feels hot and dry (not sweaty)
• Temperature is greater than 104 degrees
• Rapid, strong, or weak pulse
• Headache
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Unconsciousness

Seek immediate medical attention

Dr. Hodge advises people to seek care if they have symptoms of heat illness. They may not recognize that it could escalate.

• Call 911.
• Cool the person down by using a cool mist or fan. You can also use a cool-water bath or shower, or apply cool, wet towels or ice packs (on groin, neck, and armpits).
• Move into air conditioning, if possible.
• Remove excess clothing.
• Maintain the airway for breathing.

A physician will advise the person on follow-up care and recovery.

Read: Where to Go for Care: Primary Care, Urgent Care or ER?

With some advanced planning, you and your family can enjoy fun in the sun safely. 

Remember this: more people without air conditioning are feeling the effects of heat waves. This includes older adults, those who are homebound, and those who feel isolated. Checking on such neighbors during the warm summer days could save lives. If you are ever unsure, call 911.

If you need to find care or a primary care provider, visit Find a Doctor | Trinity Health Michigan.