Heatstroke - Would You Know the Signs?

Summer has arrived and extreme heat can be hazardous. When it's sweltering hot, mere minutes can seem like hours. But that intense summer heat can do more than sap your energy and make you sweat. If you're not careful, it puts you at risk of heat illness. And if you become dangerously overheated, it can result in heatstroke.

Heatstroke is the most severe type of heat illness — and it's a medical emergency. It occurs when our natural cooling system gets completely overloaded. Normally, sweating helps protect us from overheating. But with heatstroke, a person's temperature can soar rapidly — above 103° F. And sweat doesn't evaporate fast enough to cool the body. It often results from outdoor activity. But without air conditioning, indoor temperatures can get dangerously high too. In some cases, heat stroke can be deadly. And it can happen to anyone. Young children and older adults are especially vulnerable. If you have a chronic health condition or take certain medications, you may also be more heat sensitive. Talk with your doctor about your risk.  Signs of heatstroke vary — but they may include: skin that is red, hot and dry, rapid pulse, dizziness, labored breathing, confusion, hallucination or seizures. Unconsciousness is an emergency!

If you think someone has heatstroke, call 911. While you wait for help to arrive, move the person to the shade. Take off any of his or her unneeded or tight clothing. And if possible, place cold compresses — or cool, wet towels or sheets — against the skin. Start with these hot spots: the head, neck, groin and armpits. Or fan — while lightly spraying or sponging the person with water.

It's important to be able to spot the signs of heatstroke. It's even better to prevent heat illness before it strikes. Here are four ways to help yourself and your family stay safe and comfortable when temperatures climb: 

1. Get a head start on thirst. Don’t wait to drink until your mouth feels dry. Stay hydrated with water or other cool liquids. But keep in mind that alcohol and caffeine can contribute to dehydration and heat illness. 

2. Chill inside. If you don't have air conditioning, head to a mall, library or other spot that does — and stay there for a few hours, if possible. Or try a cool shower or bath at home. 

3. Be an early bird or night owl. Try to save outdoor activities for the cooler morning or evening hours. If you must be out in the peak heat of the day, don't push yourself — especially if you're not used to it. Pick up your pace slowly. And if you feel overly hot or light-headed, get out of the heat to cool off and rest. 

4. Dress light and breezy. To help stay cool, choose lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that lets air circulate.  Hydration needs can vary — based on health conditions you have and medications you’re taking. Talk with your doctor about what’s right for you.

Look out for others too! When temperatures soar, check on older relatives and neighbors regularly. Or maybe you have a young athlete in the family. If so, ask if coaches are trained in preventing heat illness — and make sure they follow through. For example, in extreme heat, activities and practices should be modified. Finally, never leave or forget a child or pet in a parked vehicle. Some adults may be at risk if left alone too. Even in mild weather, the inside of a car can heat up to a deadly temperature.

So follow the tips mentioned above and you should be on your way to beating the heat!