Tips for Staying Safe in Extreme Heat

Large areas of the Midwest and Eastern United States are currently facing extreme heat warnings and advisories, as reported by the National Weather Service. This hot weather poses a significant health risk, with many people succumbing to heat-related illnesses each year in the U.S. Heatstroke is particularly dangerous, potentially leading to severe health issues such as organ failure.

Assess Heat Risk Before Outdoor Activities

It’s crucial to evaluate the heat risk before heading outside. Extreme heat danger does not correlate directly with a specific temperature. Various factors such as your adaptation to heat, duration of exposure, and humidity levels matter. Lewis Halsey, an environmental physiology professor at the University of Roehampton, emphasizes the role of humidity, noting that sweating cools better in dry heat. Wind conditions also play a role. Ashley Ward, from Duke University’s Heat Policy Innovation Hub, advises paying attention to humidity and wind speed.

Stay updated with heat advisories and warnings from the National Weather Service, which account for humidity and actual air temperature. Nick Staub from Maricopa County notes that extreme heat deaths can occur even without warnings. Consider using resources like the HeatRisk tool for a comprehensive understanding of heat conditions, considering factors like temperature deviations from normal and humidity forecasts.

Identify High-Risk Groups

As highlighted by NPR, certain individuals are at a greater risk for heat-related illnesses. Infants, small children, older adults, pregnant women, and those from cooler regions need to take additional precautions. Certain medications or chronic health conditions can also increase vulnerability.

Medication-Related Heat Sensitivity

Medications can exacerbate heat sensitivity. Diuretics, blood pressure drugs, and medicines affecting thermoregulation, such as anticholinergics, stimulants, ACE inhibitors, and beta blockers, can increase dehydration and overheating risks, according to Wafi Momin, cardiologist. Psychiatric drugs also affect sweating and heat perception. Patients should continue prescribed medications but consult with doctors about heat exposure risks.

Heat Exhaustion vs. Heat Stroke

Understanding the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke is vital. Symptoms like fatigue, nausea, rapid breathing, and dizziness indicate exhaustion, while confusion, vomiting, seizures, and passing out point to heat stroke. Immediate action to cool down and seek emergency care is crucial, notes Dr. Matt Leonard.

Stay Cool: Strategies and Clothing

Avoiding midday sun and opting for protective clothing can help manage body temperature. Carol Ewing Garber advises staying in shade and wearing lightweight, breathable attire to facilitate cooling, emphasizing the skin’s role as a self-cooling system. Loose-fitting clothes allow sweat to evaporate effectively, adds Dr. Renee Salas.

Hydration: Prehydrate and Rehydrate

Staying hydrated is essential, especially in hot conditions. Prepare by prehydrating and continue drinking water during outdoor activities, advises Neil Gandhi. While water suffices for regular hydration, electrolytes may be necessary in cases of overheating or heavy perspiration.

Mental Health and Heat Impact

High temperatures can worsen mental health issues, correlating with increased emergency visits for mental health concerns. Research by Dr. Joshua Wortzel indicates a rise in suicide risk during heat waves. For support, contact the 988 Suicide Crisis Lifeline. Protect yourself by minimizing heat exposure and maintaining hydration, suggests Dr. Ashwini Nadkarni. Check on vulnerable individuals during heat waves, recommends Amruta Nori-Sarma.

Rhitu Chatterjee contributed to this report. This article incorporates findings from NPR coverage by various reporters.