It’s HOT! High Temperatures Have Risks

6/28/2022

Granbury, TX – The warm weather of summer creates more opportunities for people to spend time outside. Whether you are working, exercising, or doing other activities it is important to protect yourself from heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Know what to expect when you are planning outdoor activities by checking the temperature and heat index. Try to plan exercise and outdoor activities during the cooler parts of the day, early morning and late afternoon.

“Spending time in cool, air-conditioned areas is the best way to prevent heat illness, but when you are in the heat make sure to wear loose, light-colored clothing and drink lots of water,” said Ann Hathcock, D.O., board-certified family medicine physician at Lakeside Physicians. “Adults over 65, young children, people with existing medical problems such as heart disease and people without access to air conditioning are at a high risk for suffering from a heat-related illness.”

Heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and rash occur when the body cannot cool itself down in extremely hot weather. Heat stroke is the most severe form and can cause death or permanent disability if treatment is not provided. Regularly check on individuals who have a higher risk of getting heat illnesses and do not leave children and pets in the car or outside in the heat.

Some of the warning signs of heat exhaustion can be heavy sweating; weakness; cold, pale, and clammy skin; fast, weak pulse; nausea or vomiting, and fainting. If you or someone near you is experiencing these symptoms take the following steps:

• Move to a cool location
• Lie down and loosen clothing
• Apply cold, wet cloths
• Sip water
• If you or the individual has vomited and it continues, seek medical attention immediately.

“Heat stroke occurs when someone has a high body temperature (above 103 degrees Fahrenheit),” said Dr. Hathcock. “Signs of heat stroke include hot, red, dry or moist skin, rapid and strong pulse or possible unconsciousness.”

Heat stroke is an emergency. If you think someone is experiencing symptoms, take immediate action:

• Seek medical attention and dial 911
• Move them to a cool location
• Reduce their body temperature with a cool bath or cloths
• Do not give fluids.

Lake Granbury Medical Center's emergency department is always prepared to provide treatment for heat illness. To learn more about Dr. Hathcock, please call her office at (817) 326-3900 or visit https://bit.ly/DrHathcock.

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