Summer is often a time to relax and enjoy the sun and the outdoors. But sometimes temperatures and humidity rise to the point where it can become uncomfortable, and potentially unhealthy.
In this Q&A, Erik J. Blutinger, MD, MSc, an emergency room doctor at Mount Sinai Queens and Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, offers some simple tips on how to keep cool when temperatures rise, and how to know when you or others may be overheating and require medical care.
Erik J. Blutinger, MD, MSc
How can you keep cool when it gets very hot during the summer?
First, make sure that you monitor your time in the sun. Try to stay in a cool place, out of direct exposure. Apply sunscreen. Wear loose fitted clothing. Drink plenty of fluids. And be careful of being in enclosed hot spaces, especially your vehicle. Within just a few minutes, you can get very hot inside a vehicle. So we always advise patients to be aware of your surroundings, especially your loved ones such as young children or older adults, to prevent anyone from getting too hot during the summertime.
Who is most susceptible to overheating?
People who are most susceptible to overheating include older adults, those with chronic medical conditions, and babies. That’s because it is more difficult for them “to adapt as adults to temperature change; they have a harder time regulating their own body temperature.” Others who are potentially at risk include those working outside and those who play sports outside.
Do you often see people seeking medical treatment for overheating?
At any emergency room, we often see people who come in seeking medical treatment for overheating, especially in the summer months. Fortunately we have the medical tools available to us to take care of them safely. But it is always best to be aware of your surroundings so that you don’t get to the point where you do need medical treatment.
What is heatstroke?
Heatstroke is a true medical emergency and is often fatal if left untreated. It is the most serious type of heat-related illness. It’s marked by very high temperatures, such as when your body temperature reaches 104 F (40 C) or higher. It is normally accompanied by other problems, notably confusion.
What are some early signs of general heat illness?
Early signs of general heat illness include having cool, pale, or even flushed skin. You can also have headaches, lightheadedness, or weakness among other symptoms
How do I know when I should seek medical care?
You should seek medical care when you feel as though you’re having a true life-threatening emergency. Generally what I advise patients and family members is that if you are starting to feel lightheaded or dizzy, have a headache, or feel hot, put yourself into a cool environment. Drink plenty of fluids, rest, and see how you feel. If you feel as though you’re not experiencing improvement after taking a few concrete steps to get better, then I would consult a medical professional and consider going to the hospital or contacting your doctor
How can I tell the difference between a sunburn and heatstroke?
It can be tricky to tell the difference between sunburn and heat stroke because the symptoms can be similar. Sunburn is usually marked as very mild irritation, flushed skin, or blisters that can be treated at home and with a few topical creams and ointments. But in some cases, a sunburn can lead to a heatstroke. Heatstroke usually will be accompanied by not only a rash, but also fevers or chills, nausea, vomiting, and possibly confusion.
How can I get help if I am concerned about heat-related illnesses?
New York City has many resources that are available to all. For those who do not have an air conditioning unit and may struggle financially, there are resources such as the Home Energy Assistance Program. You can also call 311 or find a cooling center in New York City during a heatwave, which can be found on the website.