Here’s how to recognize two common heat-related illnesses – and what to do if they occur.Many people don’t think much about what happens to their bodies when it’s very hot out. They may know that it’s important to drink water or to apply sunscreen, but not everyone pays attention to symptoms that signal that the heat is getting the best of them. Heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke can be serious or even life-threatening, and the best way to protect yourself is to recognize the symptoms and know what to do if they occur.
Here’s how to tell the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke. The first is a warning that you need to cool down and the second is a medical emergency.
Heat Exhaustion
If you’ve been outside for a while in the heat, whether working in the yard, doing your job, having fun at the beach or playing sports, the heat may take a toll on your body after a while. You may be sweating a lot one minute but then before you know it, you just don’t feel right. Your head might hurt or you may feel weak, dizzy or very tired. You could be nauseous or have cramps in your legs or stomach. You might be extremely thirsty or have little urine output. Your skin may be pale or flushed.
If this is happening, you likely have heat exhaustion, which occurs due to excessive water and salt being lost when you sweat. You don’t need to panic, but you do need to cool off. Stop what you’re doing, get out of the heat and cool your body down. Seek shade or go inside. Take slow sips of water. Put cool water on your body. Loosen any tight clothes. Rest. Most people start feeling better after doing these things, but if you don’t you may need medical attention.
Heat Stroke
Heat stroke isn’t just feeling like you’re overheated when you’re out in the sun. It means the body’s cooling system has shut down. Body temperature may shoot up past 104°F and that’s dangerous – in fact, heat stroke is a medical emergency.
People with heat stroke might stop sweating altogether and their skin may feel hot and dry. They may seem confused or start acting strange. They may even faint, have a seizure or become unresponsive.
It’s more likely that you would notice signs of heatstroke in someone else than in yourself because people with heatstroke may be too sick to realize they need to get help. But if you ever suspect heat stroke in someone, call 911 right away. While waiting for help to arrive, try to lower the person’s body temperature by moving them into the shade or indoors and using cold water or wet towels to cool them down. Ice packs on the neck or underarms can also help.
Who’s Most at Risk for Heat-Related Illnesses?
Babies, older adults, people with health problems or anyone taking medications that affects their circulation or body’s cooling mechanisms are more at risk of developing heat-related illnesses. Athletes, construction workers and other people working outside in the heat are also at higher risk. But heat exhaustion and heat stroke can happen to anyone, even if you don’t fall into one of those categories and are healthy.
The best way to prevent heat-related illnesses is to take steps to avoid getting overheated. This includes skipping outdoor activities when it’s very hot, taking breaks in the shade or indoors, dressing in light, loose-fitting clothing, and drinking plenty of water, even if you’re not thirsty. It’s also important to listen to your body. If you start to notice any symptoms or don’t feel like yourself when out in the heat, don’t try to tough it out. Instead, take steps to start cooling yourself down so things don’t get worse.
Content Courtesy of Bates County Memorial Hospital
Heat-related illness can become serious quickly. If you or someone near you shows signs of heat stroke, don’t wait—call 911. Our EMS team and Emergency Department are here for you, 24/7. For non-emergency questions, call 660-200-7050.
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