Summer can mean more freedom, adventure and fun. Kids are out of school, your family may be taking a much-needed vacation and everyone will be spending more time outdoors. But while being outside can energize the body, mind and spirit, there’s always the risk of health issues, too.
Blue skies and sunshine bring more heat and humidity. The summer sun can be intense, and too much exposure can cause dangerous heat stroke. Learn what heat stroke is, how to recognize the symptoms and when to seek medical care.
What is Heat Stroke?
Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition that happens when your core body temperature rises to 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher and can no longer cool itself.
How Do I Get Heat Stroke?
Being outdoors makes you vulnerable to the elements, especially the heat caused by the summer sun. But it’s important to remember that heat stroke can also happen while you’re inside. If your home isn’t air-conditioned, you can still be vulnerable to the heat.
In times of extreme heat, you should also be careful about physical activities. Strenuous exercise — indoors or out — during extreme heat can also make you vulnerable.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Heat Stroke?
Knowing how to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat stroke can help you save a life. Symptoms include:
- Coma (unconsciousness lasting a long time)
- Confusion or hallucinations
- Convulsions or seizures
- Dizziness
- Elevated body temperature (104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher)
- Fainting (unconsciousness lasting a short time)
- Fast, strong, pounding pulse
- Headache
- Hot, red, dry or clammy skin
- Nausea
- Not sweating
- Slurred speech
If you or a loved one are experiencing these symptoms, seek medical care immediately.
Actions to Take
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. If you suspect a loved one is experiencing heat stroke, take the following actions:
- Call 911 or get them to the hospital immediately.
- Lower their body temperature by applying cool cloths or putting them in a cool bath.
- Move the person to a cooler location, preferably in an area with air conditioning.
Treating heat stroke earlier is vital for avoiding complications, some of which are fatal.
Diagnosis
A physician usually clinically diagnoses heat stroke by physically reviewing the symptoms and measuring core body temperature. And since other conditions such as sepsis, malaria, certain cancers and drug abuse can have similar symptoms as heat stroke, a physician may order the following additional tests to rule out other causes.
Some tests used for diagnosing heat stroke include:
Blood Tests
With a blood test, physicians can:
- Check kidney and liver function
- Measure sodium, electrolytes, potassium and bicarbonates
- Rule out anemia, infections and diabetes
- Screen for drug use
Chest X-Rays
Chest X-rays can help physicians look for or better understand any damage to the lungs.
ECG
An electrocardiogram (ECG) can help physicians check or monitor heart activity.
Advanced Imaging
Advanced imaging technologies, such as MRI and CT scans, help physicians look for abnormalities and complications of heat stroke in large organs.
Urine Test
Physicians can check for damage to muscles or kidneys due to complications of heat stroke with a simple urine test.
Treatment
Treatment for heat stroke is time-critical to prevent further complications or possibly save a life.
Treatment may include:
- Administering medications to control shivering
- Cooling the skin using cool — not cold — water (usually done under medical supervision to avoid a dangerous drop in blood pressure)
- Hospitalizing the victim to provide fluids and electrolytes and to monitor breathing and circulation
- Inserting a urinary catheter to monitor urinary output
- Loosening of tight, restrictive clothing to increase airflow
- Massaging the skin to increase blood circulation
We know experiencing heat stroke can be dangerous and overwhelming, but our network of ERs located throughout Central Florida is here 24/7 to provide the expert care you need.
Ways to Avoid Heat Stroke
When your area is experiencing extreme temperatures, follow these tips to avoid heat stroke:
- Check on loved ones and friends at risk for heat-related illnesses (especially children, the elderly and those who are sick).
- Drink lots of fluids (especially water).
- Never leave children or pets in a parked vehicle with the doors and windows closed (not even for a few minutes).
- Plan activities in air-conditioned areas to stay cool.
- Take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas when outdoors to allow your body to cool off.
- Wear a hat and lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing.
Having proper knowledge allows you to be proactive when it matters most.
Be Prepared, Act Quickly
Heat stroke is a medical emergency, and treatment in the early stages can prevent serious complications. If you or a loved one show signs of heat stroke, call 911 immediately for prompt action.
If your children experience heat-related illnesses, we’re here for you. Expert pediatric-friendly ER care is close to home throughout Central Florida.
Learn more about AdventHealth emergency care and find the nearest location.
