Heat waves are becoming more intense and frequent each year, often lasting longer than in the past, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. As temperatures continue to rise, the risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke increases significantly. Stay safe. These serious conditions occur when the body struggles to regulate its internal temperatureStay Safe.
Emergency room visits linked to heat-related illnesses have surged across the United States, reports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The good news? Both heat exhaustion and heat stroke are preventable. “People should be out enjoying life and having a good time, but knowing the signs and symptoms is important,” says Dr. Adam Blumenberg, an emergency medicine physician at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia. “Being prepared and keeping an eye on the weather can help prevent a nice day from going bad.”
What are signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion?
Dr. Adam Blumenberg explains that heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness, often acting as an early warning sign. “It can feel similar to the flu—fatigue, weakness—almost like your body is telling you it’s time to rest,” he says. “That warning can be helpful because it may prompt someone to leave the heat before things get worse.”
Common signs of heat exhaustion include:
- Heavy sweating
- Pale, cool, or clammy skin
- Fast but weak pulse
- Nausea or vomiting
Read More: New COVID Variant NB.1.8.1 (Nimbus): Key Facts and Summer Protection Tips
When does heat stroke occur?
If left untreated, heat exhaustion can quickly progress to heat stroke—the most dangerous and life-threatening form of heat-related illness. Heat stroke can cause permanent neurological damage and, in severe cases, can be fatal. It occurs when the body’s temperature regulation system fails, causing vital organs to begin shutting down.
According to the CDC, warning signs of heat stroke include:
- Body temperature of 103°F (39.4°C) or higher
- Hot, red, dry, or damp skin
- Rapid and strong pulse
- Headache, dizziness, or nausea
One of the most serious indicators of heat stroke is impaired brain function. A person may appear confused, disoriented, or unaware of their surroundings. They may be unable to communicate or seek help. In extreme cases, they could lose consciousness, experience seizures, or slip into a coma.
Who is at a greater risk of heat-related illness?
Although heat-related illnesses can affect anyone, certain groups face a higher risk—especially older adults, young children, and individuals with chronic illnesses or mental health conditions.
In young children who may not yet have the words to express how they feel, early signs can include unusual irritability, excessive crying, or changes in normal behavior. If a child feels hot to the touch or appears overheated, it’s important to move them to a cooler environment immediately.
If someone is on prescribed medications, what should they keep in mind?
The human body relies on complex systems to maintain critical functions—such as temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing—within a safe and stable range. These systems operate much like a thermostat, constantly adjusting to keep the body in balance.
When body temperature rises, the nervous system activates cooling mechanisms: sweat glands begin to produce sweat, and blood vessels near the skin surface widen (dilate) to help release excess heat. In contrast, when body temperature drops, the nervous system triggers shivering to generate and conserve warmth.
While these effects are usually mild, they can become dangerous in already hot environments. If someone is close to developing heat illness, these medications may push them over the edge.
Prescription drugs that may increase body temperature include:
- Certain antipsychotics
- Some blood pressure medications
- Stimulants (prescription or illicit)
- Specific antidepressants
Additionally, abruptly stopping medications—especially without medical guidance—can sometimes trigger a dangerous rise in body temperature.
Although drug-induced heat illness is relatively rare, it can occur. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your medication, especially in the summer or during heatwaves.
What Is Drug-Related Heat Illness?
Drug-related heat illness is a condition seen more frequently in emergency departments, especially in cases involving stimulant drugs like methamphetamine or cocaine. These substances can significantly raise body temperature by increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and overall metabolic activity—making users highly vulnerable to heat stroke.
What Should You Do If Someone Is Having a Heat Stroke?
Immediate action can save a life. If you suspect someone is experiencing heat stroke, follow these steps:
- Call 911 right away.
Confusion, sudden disorientation, or unresponsiveness is a medical emergency. - Move the person to a cooler environment.
- Help lower their body temperature.
Use cool, damp cloths or place them in a cool bath if available.
Do not give them anything to drink, especially if they are unconscious or semi-conscious.
Never put anything in their mouth, as it may lead to choking.
How Do Emergency Rooms Treat Heat-Related Illnesses?
Rapid cooling is the top priority when treating heat stroke. On extremely hot days, many emergency departments prepare in advance by keeping large tubs of ice on standby. Treatment methods include:
- Placing ice packs on key areas, such as under the arms and in the groin.
- Applying cooling blankets or giving cool water baths.
- Administering IV fluids, although external cooling is often more effective initially.
The goal is to bring the person’s body temperature down to a safe level—typically below 104°F (40°C)—as quickly as possible. Once stabilized, further treatment continues until the patient returns to a normal temperature range and symptoms improve.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is heat-related illness?
Heat-related illness refers to a range of medical conditions that result from the body overheating, especially during high temperatures and humidity. These conditions include heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and the most severe form, heat stroke. They occur when the body is unable to cool itself efficiently.
What are the warning signs of heat exhaustion?
Heat exhaustion can present with symptoms such as heavy sweating, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, a fast but weak pulse, and pale or clammy skin. It often feels similar to the flu and is a sign that the body is struggling to regulate its temperature. Recognizing these early signs and taking immediate action can help prevent progression to heat stroke.
How is heat stroke different from heat exhaustion?
Unlike heat exhaustion, heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency that occurs when body temperature rises above 103°F and the body’s cooling mechanisms fail. It can cause confusion, disorientation, seizures, or even loss of consciousness. Immediate medical treatment is essential to prevent serious complications or death.
Who is most at risk of heat-related illness?
Certain individuals are more vulnerable to heat illness, including older adults, young children, people with chronic health conditions, and those taking medications that interfere with the body’s ability to regulate temperature. Mental health disorders and outdoor physical labor also increase risk, as does prolonged exposure without proper hydration or rest.
Can medications increase the risk of heat illness?
Yes, many medications can interfere with the body’s temperature regulation. Drugs such as antihistamines, decongestants, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and stimulants may impair sweating or blood flow, making it harder for the body to cool down. Stopping some medications abruptly can also raise body temperature. It’s important to consult a healthcare provider before making any changes to prescribed medications.
What should I do if someone shows signs of heat stroke?
If someone is confused, unresponsive, or showing symptoms of heat stroke, it’s critical to call 911 immediately. Move the person to a cooler environment and begin cooling their body using damp cloths or a cold bath if available. Do not give them anything to drink, especially if they are unconscious, as this could cause choking.
How can I prevent heat-related illnesses?
Staying safe in extreme heat involves several proactive steps. It’s important to stay well-hydrated, avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day, wear lightweight clothing, and take regular breaks in cool or shaded areas. Monitoring weather alerts and checking in on vulnerable individuals can also help reduce the risk of heat-related illness.
Conclusion
Heat-related illnesses are serious but largely preventable health risks, especially as extreme heat events become more common. Understanding the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, recognizing who is most at risk, and knowing how to respond in an emergency can save lives. Whether you’re caring for children, older adults, or managing a chronic condition, staying informed and prepared is essential during hot weather. Always prioritize hydration, monitor medications, and pay close attention to your body’s signals. When in doubt, seek medical help—early action can make all the difference.