Office Visit: Heat-Related Illness and Prevention

Office Visit: Heat-Related Illness and Prevention

By Todd Hoffman, M.D.

August often brings some of the hottest temperatures of the year in Oklahoma, making it important to understand the risks of heat-related illness and how to prevent it. While anyone can be affected by extreme heat, older adults, young children, outdoor workers and people with chronic health conditions are especially vulnerable.

One of the most common heat-related illnesses is heat exhaustion, which occurs after the body loses excessive fluids and salt through sweating. Symptoms may include heavy sweating, dizziness, headache, muscle cramps, nausea, fatigue and cool, clammy skin. If these warning signs are recognized early, moving to a cool area to rest and drink fluids can often help the body recover.

Limiting alcohol and excessive caffeine can reduce dehydration risk.

Additional precautions can make a significant difference. When possible, schedule strenuous outdoor activities when it's cooler in the morning or evening. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and seek shade or air-conditioned environments during the hottest parts of the day. Outdoor workers should take frequent breaks and monitor coworkers for signs of heat stress.

As summer temperatures continue to rise, awareness is key. Recognizing symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke - and taking simple preventive measures - can help keep you and your loved ones safe. By staying hydrated, avoiding excessive heat exposure and acting quickly after symptoms appear, you can enjoy the remainder of summer while protecting your health.

Let's make it a good month.

Todd Hoffman, M.D., C.P.E., is chief medical officer of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma, a division of Health Care Service Corp., a Mutual Legal Reserve Company.

However, heat exhaustion can quickly progress to heat stroke, a life-threatening medical emergency. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, unlike heat exhaustion, heat stroke occurs after the body's temperature rises to dangerous levels and can no longer regulate itself. Signs include a high body temperature, hot or red skin, confusion, slurred speech, rapid pulse or loss of consciousness. If heat stroke is suspected, call 911 immediately and begin cooling the person while waiting for emergency medical assistance.

Prevention is the best defense against heat-related illness. Staying hydrated is critical, particularly during outdoor activities. Drink water before you feel thirsty. Keep fluids available throughout the day and increase intake when spending time outdoors. During prolonged activity in the heat, drinking beverages containing electrolytes may also be helpful.