Summer Fun and Summer Heat

By Charity Robinson, MD

We are at the peak of summer, which brings warm weather and a time of fun-filled outdoor activities, but warm weather can also cause heat related illnesses, particularly for older adults, young children, pregnant women, and those with medical conditions. Our ER is often much busier on hot days with symptoms of weakness, dizziness, and passing out.
Heat related illness occurs when your body is unable to cool properly, which then causes dehydration, heat stroke, and even death if left unattended, but these can be prevented by taking proper precautions. Ways to stay cool outside include staying in the shade as much as possible, taking breaks when you can, and doing outdoor activities during the coolest parts of the day or evening whenever possible. When you are indoors, use air conditioning or find a location that has one if possible, and if that is not an option, use fans to keep air moving, but only if indoor temperatures are less than 90°F. In temperatures above 90°F, a fan can increase body temperature. It is a good idea to check on your family, friends, and neighbors, especially if they have chronic medical problems or live alone and be sure to provide your pets with means to stay cool also. To stay hydrated, make sure you drink more water than usual, and limit beverages high in sugars and sodium, caffeine, and alcohol. Be mindful of the color of your urine. When it is light yellow or clear, it usually means you are drinking enough water.
Symptoms of heat related illness include muscle cramping, unusually heavy sweating, shortness of breath, dizziness, headaches, weakness, lethargy, and nausea. If one becomes overheated, they can cool off more quickly in an air-conditioned environment, drink ice cold water, take a cool shower or bath, or use cool cloths, but if symptoms are not improving one may need to get medical attention.
It is also very important never to stay in an enclosed car without Air Conditioning on hot days or leave pets or children in a car. If you are out at the river or lake to keep cool, be sure you are wearing appropriate skin covering or sunscreen to avoid sunburn, drink water to stay hydrated, and wear life vests when appropriate to make sure everyone is safe and can enjoy many more summer days in the future.