Ashley Peoples | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Most places, especially in the south have record breaking heat in the summer months. When the temperature is higher than usual outside, it is a warning for heatstroke. Heat stroke is significant when the body temperature is longer is controlled and above the average temperature. When this happens, the temperature in the body increases fast. The body cannot produce a lower temperature to cool the body off.

Heat stork can cause the body temperature to increase to 106. This temperature occurs in the time frame of 10-15 minutes.

The symptoms of heat stroke are being confused and unaware of what is happening. Confusion is associated with heat stroke, causing an altered mental status. You may lose consciousness or go into a coma. The skin becomes hot and dry, or you may or may not have a heavy amount of sweat. According to The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, “Heat stroke can cause permanent disability or death if the person does not receive emergency treatment” (CDC). If you treat someone, it needs to be within a safe timeframe; this will prevent them from having a permanent disability.

First aid is the key to helping someone that is experiencing heat stroke. It is important to remember to call 911 for help. If someone passes out from heat stroke, the CDC states, you should move them to a shaded area. Cool them down by using cold water or giving them an ice bath, soaking a cloth in cold water, and placing a wet cloth on the person to cool them off. Cool materials should be placed on their head or under their armpits. If anyone experiences heatstroke, these are the method you should follow to help them.

Some preventative measures to avoid extreme heat, according to the CDC include:

• Stay hydrated
• NEVER leave children or pets in cars
• Remain indoors when possible – with air conditioning or proper ventilation
• When possible, schedule outdoor activities during non-peak hours (avoid mid-day)
• Wear loose fitting, light weight clothing
• Take cool showers or baths
• Check on neighbors and friends

Using preventive measures can help us all enjoy the warmth that summer has to offer while remaining safe. What steps do you take to cool down?

References:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020, July 15). Protect yourself from the dangers of extreme heat. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/toolkits/extremeheat/

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022b, May 13). Heat stress related illness. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/heatstress/heatrelillness.html