Hello, everyone. Welcome to summer. As we enjoy family gatherings, cookouts, picnics, local fairs and farmers markets, it is important to remember that warmer weather also increases the risk of heat-related illness, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. With the right information and precautions, you can recognize heat exposure early and keep your loved ones safe when temperatures rise
Nearly every year, Ohio experiences periods of extreme heat, with temperatures reaching the 90s and sometimes exceeding 100 degrees. Combined with our humidity, the risk of heat injury rises significantly. During heat waves, hospitals such as Cleveland Clinic Medina Hospital often see an increase in emergency visits related to heat exposure, including 20 additional patients last summer
A note from an expert: Dr. Joshua Lockwood, a family physician at Medina Hospital, emphasizes that prevention is essential, since just one heat injury can increase the risk of future episodes. Give your body time to adjust to the heat, stay in cool spaces during the hottest parts of the day, modify outdoor work and exercise, and stay well hydrated with water and electrolyte drinks. Watch yourself and those around you for signs of heat illness. Sunscreen also is important, not only to prevent burns but also as an evidence-based way to protect skin from premature aging.
Risk factors for heat injury include dehydration, obesity, poor physical conditioning, certain medications such as diuretics or Benadryl, underlying medical conditions, alcohol use and recent illness. Athletes are at increased risk, but heat illness can affect anyone. High temperatures also can worsen existing health conditions and contribute to serious events such as heart attacks and strokes. Children and older adults are especially vulnerable, particularly those living in homes without air conditioning.
What should you watch for? Common symptoms include dizziness, muscle cramps, headache, nausea, vomiting and a rapid heart rate. More serious signs, such as a body temperature above 104 degrees, confusion or other changes in mental status, or seizures, may indicate heatstroke and require immediate medical attention
What should you do if you suspect a heat injury? Act quickly. Early recognition and immediate cooling are critical. If someone is overheated, use cooling methods such as cold-water immersion, if available; towels soaked in ice water; or continuous misting with water while fanning. Symptoms of heat exhaustion or heatstroke require medical care to reduce the risk of further harm
Dr. Lockwood also recommends that if someone stops sweating despite the heat, becomes confused or loses coordination, take these steps:
Move the person to a shaded, cool area
Remove tight or excess clothing and increase airflow with a fan, if possible
Apply cold, wet cloths; soak clothing with cool water; mist with water; or place cold packs on the head, neck, armpits and groin to help lower core temperature
Call emergency services
If you or someone you know experiences a heat injury, consult a medical provider, such as Dr. Lockwood, before returning to normal activities
Stay safe, stay cool and enjoy everything summer has to offer
Dr. Tom
Dr. Thomas Rogers is vice president and chief medical officer of Cleveland Clinic Medina Hospital
