Guest post by Danielle Jardine, MD
New Yorkers know the drill. When summer temperatures soar into the 90s, we run from one air-conditioned venue to the next, stopping only to refill our ice-cold beverages. Breezes from approaching trains deep within the subway provide temporary relief on our way to beaches, pools or community cooling centers. But what if our jobs or activities have us outdoors or exposed to the summer heat for extended periods of time?
With heat indexes this summer nearing or even surpassing 100 degrees, it is important to know how to stay safe. Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are serious summertime illnesses that can be avoided when we know what to watch out for. Learn how to protect yourself—and keep cool—this summer.
Heat Exhaustion vs. Heatstroke
Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are related but distinct illnesses.
Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion occurs after heavy sweating when blood flow to the skin increases as the body attempts to cool itself down. The resulting effect is decreased blood flow to vital organs, which can cause heat cramps, headaches, dizziness or shallow breathing. Heat exhaustion is usually alleviated by moving to cooler areas, rehydrating with water or electrolyte drinks, elevating the feet and resting. If heat exhaustion is not addressed, however, it can potentially escalate into heatstroke.
Heatstroke
Heatstroke, also known as sunstroke, is the most serious heat-related illness. Heatstroke occurs when the body’s temperature control system (e.g., perspiration) stops working, causing the body’s temperature to rise.
In the case of heatstroke, it is crucial that the body be allowed to cool down. In a short amount of time, the urgency can escalate into a matter of life and death.
Risk Factors for Heatstroke
Heatstroke often results from heavy work or exercise in hot environments, usually when these activities are combined with inadequate hydration. Heatstroke can occur any time the heat index surpasses 105 degrees, although it is more common when the heat index is 130 degrees or higher. Older adults, young children and people who are obese are at higher risk for most heat-related illnesses, including heatstroke. Other risk factors include the use of alcohol or certain medications, wearing excess clothing that prevents sweat from easily evaporating, and preexisting cardiovascular disease.
Signs and Symptoms of Heatstroke
A common sign of heatstroke is an elevated body temperature (102 to 106 degrees). This high fever can happen suddenly, even within 10 to 15 minutes of experiencing heatstroke. Individuals suffering from heatstroke may also appear confused, may be breathing shallowly or may even faint or develop seizures.
Other signs and symptoms include:
• cessation of sweating
• rapid heartbeat
• slurred speech
• throbbing headache
• hallucinations
• nausea
• unconsciousness
What to Do if Someone Is Experiencing Symptoms of Heatstroke
If you suspect that someone you know or observe is experiencing heatstroke, you should seek medical attention immediately. Call 911 or bring the person to the nearest emergency room. If a person suffering from heatstroke cannot manage to cool down quickly, that person may face the danger of potential brain damage or, in some cases, even death.
Some additional steps you can take include:
• Moving the person out of the heat and into a shady or air-conditioned space
• Spraying the person with cool water or applying wet towels to the skin
• Fanning the person with cool air using a fan or newspaper
• Having the person drink a cool beverage (water or other nonalcoholic drink without caffeine)
Additional Tips
For additional tips on staying cool this summer, review the ideas suggested by the New York City Office of Emergency Management.
To find an excellent doctor who is right for you, please call our Physician Referral Service at 866.804.1007.
Sources:
Mayo Clinic, New York City Office of Emergency Management, Centers for Disease Control, National Institutes of Health