Heat-Related Illnesses: Types, Symptoms and Prevention
Exposure to extreme heat can result in conditions that can damage your vital organs. Your body’s ability to regulate your internal temperature changes with age, including how you retain and expel warmth.
Common Types of Heat-Related Illnesses
Heat cramps: This condition is characterized by muscle cramps or spasms, typically in your abdomen, legs and arms. It occurs when your body loses too much fluid and salt. Heat cramps can be a symptom of heat exhaustion.
Heat rash: Caused by excessive sweating, heat rash presents as clusters of swollen red spots around your neck, chest, waist, groin, underarms and breasts.
Dehydration: If your body loses more fluid than you consume, you could become dehydrated. Heavy sweating and failing to drink enough water can increase your risk of feeling sick during hot weather.
Heat exhaustion: As your internal body temperature begins to climb, you may experience heat exhaustion, which includes muscle weakness, dizziness, nausea, fainting and increased heart rate.
Heatstroke: Also known as sunstroke, this heat-related illness occurs when your temperature exceeds 104 degrees. It presents many of the same symptoms as heat exhaustion, but the skin is typically dry. Heatstroke is considered a medical emergency and should be addressed quickly to prevent long-term side effects.
Heat syncope: You may experience sudden dizziness or fainting if you stand for a long time or get up too fast in the heat. This condition can be an early sign of heat exhaustion.
Symptoms of Heat-Induced Conditions
- Increased sweating
- Clammy skin
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Rapid or weak pulse
- Disorientation
- Slurred speech
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
- Itchy rash
Preventing Heat-Related Illnesses in Hot Weather
Keeping your body cool and hydrated is essential to avoid getting sick from the heat. Taking preventative measures before temperatures soar can reduce your chance of illness and discomfort.
Here are some tips to remember:
- Drink water throughout the day, even if you aren’t thirsty.
- Limit activity during peak sun hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Take frequent breaks and sit in the shade if you plan to be outside for extended periods.
- Dress in light, breathable fabrics, like cotton and linen.
- Protect your head, neck and eyes by wearing a hat and sunglasses.
- Turn on your air-conditioning or visit a cooling center such as a shopping mall or library.
- Check the weather daily for humidity and heat advisories.
Who is Most at Risk?
If you’re 65 or older, you may face an increased risk of heat-induced conditions for a variety of reasons. Your body sweats less as you age, affecting its ability to cool off. Changes in circulation also make it difficult to disperse heat efficiently. Chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes could make you more susceptible to heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Your sense of thirst can diminish, too, increasing your chance of dehydration.
When to Seek Medical Attention
The following symptoms require immediate medical attention:
- Body temperature exceeding 103 degrees
- Repeat loss of consciousness
- Rapid pulse
- Confusion
- Disorientation
- Lack of sweat
- Persistent vomiting
If you exhibit those signs, call 911 right away. It’s crucial to begin cooling your body while you wait for assistance. Move into a shaded, cool area and remove excess layers of clothing. Apply a cool, wet cloth, ice pack or cold compress to the neck, armpits and groin. Turn on a fan if possible and sip water slowly unless loss of consciousness is an issue.
In-Home Medical Assistance to Enhance Safety During Summer
The Ohioans Home Health & Hospice staff is committed to promoting comfortable living. Our in-home skilled nursing services include safety assessments and support to ensure you have a plan to stay hydrated and cool. Contact us to learn more about our services.
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