“The heat is on, on the street, inside your head, in every beat” – Glenn Frey, 1984
It has been an interesting spring and summer so far, not a lot of “heat,” but plenty of rain! No complaints here, but I would like to have some warmer temps, and I hear they are coming!
This brings me to a personal and important message for my dear readers, as I have experienced what is known as “heat exhaustion” which can sometimes lead to “heat stroke” or “sun stroke.” Heat stroke is the most severe form of heat-related illness (hyperthermia). It occurs when your body overheats and can’t cool down. Heat stroke causes your body temperature to soar to dangerous levels, typically above 104 degrees Fahrenheit.1 Heat in your environment (like a car, home, or outdoor space) overwhelms your body’s ability to cool itself, and often typically affects children and adults over 65, but anyone is at risk.
When visiting California about 15 years ago, I was attending an outside event when I felt short of breath and nauseous, which are two symptoms of heat exhaustion which can lead to heat stroke. I found shade, cool water, and a place to rest and was then fine. A few years ago at another outdoor event, this time in Indiana, I experienced the same issue and was able to cool down, but it was a frightful experience … not one I recommend!
Heat stroke can develop very quickly. Heat stroke is actually life-threatening and requires immediate medical treatment, according to health experts. It can actually cause brain dysfunction and fainting. The longer the body temperature remains high, the greater the risk of complications. If you or someone around you has signs of symptoms of heat stroke, 911 should be called immediately. Other symptoms of heat stroke can be confusion, blurred vision, and dizziness. A heat stroke is usually diagnosed in the emergency room.
There are specific recommendations for heat stroke first aid, which I will not address here as I am not licensed to provide medical advice or direction. I advise you to research those recommendations from a reliable source or of course check with your medical advisor. Be vigilant when observing others who may show signs of heat stroke and call for help. There are also recommendations for prevention of heat stroke and just one of those is something I wrote about in this column a few weeks ago – stay hydrated! You can add electrolytes to your water as well in pill or powder form. Remember, when you feel thirsty, you are already dehydrated.
Please be mindful, as well, that our pets are in danger of overheating as well and can suffer similar issues; they need their A/C if possible and shade and cool water when outside.
Our European friends are in the midst of a heat wave as I write this and the population and visitors are suffering as much of Europe does not have air conditioning due to the usual cooler temperatures. Heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and sun stroke are very serious matters so please take heed and take care. We have waited a long, cold, winter here in Indiana for the warmth and sunshine so enjoy your time in the sun but make sure you have access to shade, stay hydrated, and limit the time you spend in the sun as the temperatures rise.
“Sun, sun, sun; here it comes” – George Harrison 1969
Sharon McMahon, CNWC
The opinions expressed in this article are not intended to replace advice of your personal physician or licensed health professional. Please consult your physician for any issues you may have related to nutrition or fitness activity.
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