The month of July was the planet’s hottest on record so far, according to the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service and the World Meteorological Organization.
And scientists say it’s almost certainly one of the hottest months in more than 100,000 years.
As we deal with the scorching sun blazing upon us, it is important to remember that the oppressive heat is a threat to our wellbeing as well as our comfort. Beyond being uncomfortable, extreme heat can pose serious health risks, especially when accompanied by high humidity.
“In the United States, more than 700 people die each year from heat illness,” said Dr. Hal Brown, of Primary Concierge Vero. “Hyperthermia is an abnormally high body temperature that covers a wide range of heat-related illnesses that range from heat cramps to heat exhaustion. It occurs when your body generates more heat than it can release. A normal body temperature is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. Any reading above 100 degrees is too warm.
“Hyperthermia generally occurs after overexertion in hot, humid weather,” Dr. Brown continued. “Athletes, outdoor laborers, military trainees, infants and the elderly are the most likely to develop hyperthermia. The good news is that most hyperthermia can be prevented.”
Here is breakdown of heat-related illnesses, from least to most severe:
1. Heat cramps in the arms, lower legs, hands and feet are the mildest form of hyperthermia and can develop in your muscles if you lose a lot of electrolytes through sweating.
2. Heat rashes resulting from the blockage of sweat glands due to the combination of heat and humidity manifest in itchy clusters of small, red pimples or blisters. They usually develop in your elbow crease, under your breast, near your groin, or on your upper chest and neck. Heat rashes can become infected if not managed properly.
3. Heat exhaustion is a more serious form of hyperthermia caused by prolonged exposure to oppressive heat. As your body struggles to regulate its temperature, it causes a loss of essential fluids and electrolytes. Symptoms can include heavy sweating, blurred vision, weakness, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, elevated heart rate and headache. Heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, with temps as high as 104 degrees.
4. Heat stroke is the most severe and life-threatening heat-related condition. It happens when the body’s temperature regulation system fails, and the internal temperature rises to dangerous levels (often above 104 degrees Fahrenheit). Symptoms of heat stroke are similar to heat exhaustion but they can also include dry skin that doesn’t sweat, balance problems, confusion or disorientation, hot flushed skin, low or high blood pressure, and seizures. Heat stroke requires immediate medical attention, as it can lead to organ failure and death if not treated promptly. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
If someone around you is experiencing symptoms of heat stroke, there are steps you can take to help them while waiting for an ambulance to arrive. Immerse the victim in cool water or mist them with water and blow it across their body. Apply ice packs to the neck, groin and armpits and avoid giving any medications including aspirin and acetaminophen.
Most of the mild-to-moderate heat illnesses can be treated at home. If you are experiencing symptoms of heat cramps, rashes, exhaustion or dehydration, you should immediately stop any physical activity and rest in a cool place. Drink electrolyte-enhanced fluids and remove heavy or tight clothing. Apply a cool compress to your skin and gently stretch any muscles that are cramping. Try to alleviate discomfort from a heat rash by applying power to dry irritated skin.
Dehydration occurs due to excessive heating which leads to rapid fluid loss from the body.
Dehydration can cause fatigue, dry mouth, dizziness and impaired functions. Severe dehydration can cause kidney problems and worsen existing health conditions.
“Staying hydrated is probably the most important thing you can do to prevent heat-related illnesses,” Dr. Brown emphasized.
“The amount of water isn’t as critical as the type of hydration fluid you drink. You want to replace the amount of liquid you are losing in sweat, but you want to replace it with more than just water. You want to incorporate electrolyte solutions like Gatorade and Pedialyte into the regimen and avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption as they can lead to further dehydration. I recommend before, during and after long periods of time in the heat.”
Children are especially vulnerable in this scorching heat. According to the National Safety Council, on average, 38 children die from heatstroke each year because they were left or became trapped in a vehicle. That’s about on child every 10 days killed in a hot car.
“Children under the age of 4 are tiny human beings and their body can heat up very rapidly,” Dr. Brown cautioned. “Even a few minutes in a hot car can significantly impact young children and could even prove to be fatal. If your child is locked in a car, do whatever you have to do to get that child out. Break a window if necessary and get the child into a cool environment. Ice them down, give them cool compresses, expose them to air conditioning and call the paramedics.”
Anyone with pre-existing medical conditions with the heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, thyroid or blood vessels should be even more cautious in severe heat as they are more susceptible to heat-related diseases. The same goes for anyone taking medications such as diuretics, stimulants, sedatives, tranquilizers, or heart and blood pressure medications.
So how can you protect yourself from hyperthermia?
- Stay hydrated – preferably with electrolyte enhanced water.
- Dress appropriately with lightweight, loose-fitting clothing to allow air circulation and wide brimmed hats and sunglasses to protect your eyes and face.
- Stay in shaded areas especially during peak hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Plan outdoor activities during early morning or late evening hours.
- Take cool showers and frequent breaks.
- Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest hours.
- Use fans and air conditioning to cool indoor spaces.
Understanding the dangers and taking proactive measures to protect yourself and others is crucial during hot summer months. Precaution is the key, so be attentive to early warning signs and take immediate action to avoid the adverse effects of oppressive heat.
Dr. Brown has practiced family medicine in Vero Beach since 1992. He earned his medical degree at the University of Florida College of Medicine and previously held the positions as the Chief of Staff and President of Medical Staff at Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital and Chief of Staff at Indian River Medical Center. He transitioned into his primary care concierge practice last April and is accepting new patients at Primary Concierge Vero, located at 3755 7th Terrace, Suite 302A in Vero Beach. Call 772-588-5060 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
