HEALTH
Be on alert this summer for signs of heat-related illness
Mark Mahoney
Guest columnist
July 21, 2026, 5:00 p.m. ET
Summer heat waves have become more common across the world, in the United States and our area of the Big Bend
So, what are important things to know about preparing for heat, preventing and/or diminishing heat-related illnesses and taking appropriate actions when these conditions present themselves?
Heat stroke and heat exhaustion are serious heat-related illnesses that can cause permanent injury or death if not treated quickly. Recognizing symptoms, acting fast, and preventing exposure are keys
Understanding the conditions
Heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses excessive water and salt through sweating, often during prolonged exposure to heat or strenuous activity. It is a warning sign that the body is struggling to cool itself
Heat stroke is the most severe form. It happens when the body’s temperature regulation system fails, and the body temperature rises rapidly — often to 104°F or higher — with sweating stopping Heat stroke is a medical emergency and can cause brain damage, organ failure, or death if not cooled immediately
Symptoms
- Headache, nausea, dizziness
- Heavy sweating
- Weakness, fatigue
- Thirst, irritability
- Low blood pressure, rapid pulse
Heat stroke may include:
- Confusion, altered mental status, slurred speech
- Loss of consciousness (coma)
- Hot, dry skin (or profuse sweating in some cases)
- Seizures, rapid breathing or heartbeat
- Very high body temperature
Prevention
- Check the heat index before outdoor work; avoid activity if it’s above 115°F.
- Schedule work for cooler parts of the day.
- Stay hydrated — drink water every 15 minutes, even if not thirsty.
- Wear loose, breathable clothing.
- Take frequent rest breaks in shaded or cool areas.
- Use a buddy system to monitor for symptoms.
- Acclimatize gradually to hot conditions.
- People with certain health conditions (e.g., heart disease, diabetes, pregnancy) are at higher risk and should take extra precautions.
First aid
If someone shows signs of heat exhaustion:
- Move them to a cooler area.
- Remove excess clothing.
- Give small sips of cool water if they can drink.
- Cool with cold compresses or a cool shower
If someone has heat stroke:
- Call 911 immediately — it’s a life-threatening emergency Move them to a shaded, cool place. Remove outer clothing.
- Cool the body quickly: sponge with cold water, use cold cloths on head, neck, armpits, and groin, or place in a cool bath.
- Do not cover the entire body with wet clothing, as this can slow cooling.
Key takeaway
Heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke quickly. Recognize early symptoms, act fast, and seek emergency care immediately. Prevention through planning, hydration, and rest is the best way to avoid these dangerous conditions
References/additional information
Check out the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention re
You can also access a valuable reprovide your zip code and it provides a classification on the risk in your area as well as recommended actions you can take to keep you and your family safe
Check out the following renesses: heat.gov/heat-safety
Mark A. Mahoney, Ph.D., R.D.N., has been a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist for over 40 years completed graduate studies in Nutrition & Public Health at Columbia University and earned a Ph.D. at Florida State University. He can be reached at marqos69@hotmail.com
