Each year, thousands of people in the U.S. are affected by heat-related illnesses, which are particularly common during the summer.

Our temperatures here in Texas have already soared this summer, and in June alone, 60 counties in the state were expected to experience at least five “extremely hot” days. Extreme heat is defined as a high temperature at the 95th percentile or above for historical temperatures in that county.

When the hot temperatures collide with high humidity, our bodies don’t handle heat as efficiently. Usually, the body is able to cool down by sweating. When it’s humid outside, however, sweat can’t evaporate, so it simply sits on the surface of the skin. That can lead to abnormally (and uncomfortably) high body temperatures, which makes heat-related illnesses more likely.

There are several different types of heat-related illnesses, differing in severity and how they should be handled.

Heat Cramps

Heat cramps occur when a person is sweating heavily, which depletes the body of fluids and electrolytes, including sodium. These cramps, which may feel like pain or spasms, can affect the abdomen, legs or arms. They may occur as a standalone heat-related illness, or they can also be a sign of heat exhaustion.

If someone is experiencing heat cramps, massage the affected area to relieve pain and spasms. Have the person sip water or an electrolyte-replenishing beverage to rehydrate. If cramps continue for longer than an hour, seek medical attention.

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion also occurs when excessive sweating depletes the body of fluids and electrolytes. In addition to causing heat cramps, this condition can cause a wide range of other symptoms, including:

• Cold, moist, pale skin

• Decreased urine output

• Dizziness

• Fainting

• Fast, weak pulse

• Headache

• Heavy sweating

• Nausea 

• Weakness 

If someone is experiencing signs of heat exhaustion, move them to a cooler location. Loosen their clothing and have them sip cool water or an electrolyte-replenishing beverage. Applying cool cloths to their skin may also be helpful.

If symptoms linger for longer than an hour or worsen, or if the person vomits, seek immediate medical attention. Heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke in some cases.

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. It occurs when the body cannot control its own temperature and body systems begin to fail.

Symptoms of heat stroke can include:

• Body temperature of 103 F or higher

• Confusion

• Dizziness

• Fast, strong pulse

• Headache

• Hot, red skin that may be dry or damp

• Loss of consciousness

• Nausea

• Seizures

• Slurred speech

You may notice that some of these symptoms also occur with heat exhaustion, so what’s the difference? The primary indicators of heat exhaustion are an extremely high temperature along with neurological symptoms, including confusion.

When to Seek Emergency Help

If someone is experiencing signs of heat stroke, it is a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately, then move the person to a cooler location and attempt to lower their body temperature using cool cloths or a cool bath. Do not give the person anything to drink. 

Immediate medical treatment is essential for someone with heat stroke, since excessively high body temperature can be fatal.

Preventing Heat-Related Illnesses

In addition to the conditions outlined above, heat can also cause heat syncope, which is fainting or dizziness associated with heat, and heat rash, which is a skin irritation caused by excessive sweating.

While the hot summer temperatures are here to stay, you can take steps to protect yourself. Choose your outdoor time wisely during the summer, avoiding the sun’s peak intensity between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. When you’re outdoors, seek shade whenever possible and dress in light, loose clothing. 

Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, even if you aren’t feeling thirsty. These basic precautions can go a long way toward keeping you safe!

If you have a health condition, a St. Luke’s Health primary care physician can advise you about additional precautions to take in the heat.