The Health 4Cast Series | Heatstroke and Heat Exhaustion

Your health questions deserve answers you can trust. The Health 4Cast is your go-to source for expert health advice from UF Health physicians and specialists. Each month, we share four practical tips on timely health topics, empowering you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and live healthier every day.

This month's topic is heatstroke and heat exhaustion. Florida's summer temperatures can quickly become dangerous, especially for those spending time outdoors. Knowing how to recognize the warning signs of heat-related illness and when to seek medical care can help protect you and your loved ones.

Dr. Justin Nippert, medical director for UF Health Emergency and Urgent Care Centers, shares four essential tips on preventing heat-related illnesses, recognizing warning signs and how to get the necessary treatment and care.

What are the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke?

Heat-related illnesses occur on a spectrum, with heat exhaustion being less severe and heatstroke being a life-threatening emergency.

Heat exhaustion

Common signs and symptoms include:

• Heavy sweating
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fatigue or weakness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle cramps
• Headache

Without treatment, heat exhaustion can progress to heatstroke.

Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a medical emergency that occurs when the body's temperature rises to dangerous levels and it can no longer cool itself effectively.

Signs and symptoms include:

• Body temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher
• Confusion, disorientation, or unusual behavior
• Slurred speech
• Loss of consciousness
• Seizures

Anyone with signs of heatstroke should receive immediate emergency medical care.

Who is most at risk for heat exhaustion and heatstroke?

While anyone can develop a heat-related illness, some people are at higher risk, including:

• Adults over age 65
• Infants and young children
• People who work outdoors, such as construction workers, landscapers, first responders and agricultural workers
• Athletes exercising in hot or humid conditions
• People with chronic medical conditions, including heart disease, lung disease, obesity or diabetes
• Individuals taking certain medications, such as diuretics, some blood pressure medications, stimulants or medications that affect sweating
• People who are not accustomed to exercising or working in hot weather

High humidity, intense physical activity, and limited access to shade or air conditioning further increase the risk.

How do we prevent heat exhaustion and heatstroke?

Fortunately, most heat-related illnesses can be prevented by taking a few simple precautions:

• Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, even before you feel thirsty
• Avoid excessive alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing
• Schedule outdoor work or exercise during the cooler morning or evening hours when possible
• Take frequent breaks in the shade or in air-conditioned spaces
• Pay attention to local heat advisories and modify outdoor activities during extreme heat
• Never leave children, older adults, or pets in a parked vehicle, even for a short time

What should someone do if they have heat exhaustion or heatstroke?

If you think someone has heat exhaustion:

• Move them to a cool, shaded or air-conditioned location
• Have them lie down and loosen or remove excess clothing
• Apply cool, wet towels to the skin or use fans to help lower body temperature
• Encourage them to drink cool water or a sports drink
• Symptoms should begin improving within 30 to 60 minutes. If they worsen or do not improve, seek medical evaluation promptly

If you think someone has heatstroke:

Call 911 immediately. Heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency

While waiting for emergency responders:

• Move the person to a cool area
• Remove excess clothing
• Begin cooling immediately using cold water, ice packs placed on the neck, armpits and groin.
• Do not force fluids if the person is confused, unconscious, or unable to swallow safely

Early recognition and rapid cooling are the most important steps in improving outcomes for someone with heatstroke.