Know what to do when the temperatures rise

High temperatures, like those expected in Indiana over the next few days, can become more than just uncomfortable—they can become dangerous to your health.

“Heat-related issues like heat exhaustion and heat stroke are concerns our Emergency services teams have top-of-mind during times like this,” said Drew Watters, MD, IU Health Bloomington Emergency Medicine physician. “Our vulnerable populations, or those at increased risk, include those who work outdoors, don’t have air conditioning at home, or can’t cool down at night are at increased risk.”

He also explained how certain medical concerns and medications—like cardiovascular disease, blood pressure medications and diuretics—can make someone more susceptible to heat illnesses.

“But really, anyone can experience heat exhaustion or have heat stroke, so taking proper precautions is key during times of high temperatures,” said Watters. “Paying close attention to young children is particularly important since they are less able to communicate physical symptoms or understand that something is wrong.”

He encourages adults and children take proper precautions while the temperatures are high, including:

• Stay hydrated with plenty of water
• Limit outdoor activity, and try to keep it to the early hours or very late in the day
• If you don’t have air conditioning, visit a location that does such as a public library, shopping mall or public cooling station
• Wear light, loose clothing
• Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke so you can act fast

“Dizziness, nausea, headaches, thirst and weakness are some signs you should move to a cool location, rest and drink some cool water,” said Watters. “Fever, difficulty walking, vomiting, tiredness and tight muscles are also signs to keep an eye out for with children.”

Seek medical help if the symptoms don’t improve after the individual has drunk cool water, moved to a cool location and rested.

And it’s essential to act fast if the individual becomes confused, isn’t sweating or stopped sweating, has a seizure, has altered mental status, is dizzy or loses consciousness, since these are signs of heat stroke.

“Time to cooling is the biggest predictor for death or brain damage,” said Watters. “If someone is overheated and confused, call 911 immediately cool them in any way possible. Shade, ice packs, cold towels—whatever you can do.”