Although other kinds of weather might get more attention, extreme heat is actually the most dangerous of all, said Hartford HealthCare pulmonologist Dr. Steven Powell.
Dr. Powell said during a heat wave, it is important to recognize the warning signs of heat-related illness. There are different types of illnesses, ranging from those that cause temporary discomfort to the often fatal condition known as heat stroke.
PODCAST: Summer Heat and You – Preventing Heat Stroke:
https://soundcloud.com/hartford-healthcare/summer-heat-and-you
“Not only is it a heat wave with that humidity, but there’s a high ozone layer, so that’s really inflammatory to our lungs,” said William Horgan, MD, MBA, medical director of quality and safety at Backus and Windham hospitals.
Dr. Powell added that those who suffer from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and the elderly are particularly vulnerable. For people with COPD whose airways are already inflamed and irritated, breathing hot air can lead to bronchospasm. During a bronchospasm, the smooth muscle of the airways contract, which decreases the size of the airways. This makes it more difficult to get air into or out of the lungs, which also will increase shortness of breath.
Dr. Powell said many elderly people worry about having to go to the bathroom too much and therefore don’t keep as hydrated as they should during hot weather.
Deadly heat stroke can result. Heat stroke is a form of hyperthermia (abnormally elevated body temperature) that occurs when the body is not able to dissipate heat quickly enough to cool itself. Populations most susceptible to heat stroke include infants, the elderly, athletes, and people working outdoors and exerting themselves in hot weather.
Tips for sending the kids to camp in the heat:
Symptoms of heat stroke include:
- High body temperature with hot, dry skin (no sweating)
- Rapid pulse
- Difficulty breathing
- Strange behavior, disorientation, confusion, hallucinations
- Nausea or vomiting
- Seizure or coma
- Dizziness
Dr. Powell said anyone experiencing heat stroke needs immediate medical attention. Don’t hesitate to call 9-1-1. While help is on the way, it is important to cool the victim in any way possible. Get the victim to a shady area, remove clothing, apply cool water to the skin, fan the victim to promote sweating and evaporation and have him or her drink water if they are conscious.
Dr. Powell said to avoid heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses, people should:
- Drink plenty of water.
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activity. If you have to be active outdoors, take frequent breaks.
- Stay indoors with air-conditioning, but seek shade if you have to be outside.
- Avoid alcohol, coffee and tea.
- Wear hats.
- Wear light-colored clothing.
“Heat-related illnesses are much easier to prevent than treat,” he said.
Prevent heat-related illness from progressing by visiting a your local urgent care center. To find one, visit GetUrgentCareNow.com. before it becomes heat stroke. If you suspect heat stroke, or are unsure, visit the emergency department at Backus Hospital, or call 9-1-1 immediately!
