DETROIT – Approximately 1,220 people in the U.S. are killed by extreme heat every year, according to the CDC.
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Heat-related deaths are more likely to occur with temperatures in the mid-90s. These deaths are caused by heat related illnesses, like heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Local 4’s Dr. McGeorge spoke on who is at risk for these illnesses, and how they can be prevented.
“Our bodies generate heat all the time, but when it’s hot and humid out, we can’t get rid of it easily,” said Dr. McGeorge. “Our body temperatures actually go up and we start to feel uncomfortable.”
Dr. McGeorge said spending an extended amount of time in extreme heat can lead to medical problems, like heat stroke. Certain groups of people need to be even more careful in extreme heat. According to the CDC, anyone with obesity, chronic illness or mental illness may be at a larger risk for developing heat-related illness. On top of this, Dr. McGeorge says older adults and younger children, especially infants, are at a greater risk as well.
“Children younger than four are at particular risk for heat problems because they cannot complain and they’re not old enough to do things themselves to cool off,” said McGeorge.
Symptoms of heat-related illnesses vary. For some, it may just be feeling weak and overall dehydrated. But for others, these symptoms can become more severe and life-threatening.
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“You could develop heat cramps, muscle cramps related to electrolyte changes and a loss of body fluid,” said Dr. McGeorge.
He adds that with these symptoms and extreme dehydration, a person’s mental status can change, putting them at an early stage of heat stroke.
“When your mental status falls completely to a horrible stage that is heat stroke,” said Dr. McGeorge. “By that point, if you’re not in an emergency department and getting care, you are in serious risk.”
Preventing heat-related illness is simple. One important tip from Dr. McGeorge is to hydrate before being exposed to the heat. He said if someone is outside, sweating and already feeling lightheaded, it may be too late.
“If you begin drinking water at that point, you are already behind the eight ball,” said Dr. McGeorge. “You are already dehydrated, so pre-hydrate before you go out and exert yourself in the heat.”
More tips include staying out of the heat if possible and staying in air conditioning. If access to air conditioning isn’t available, go to a cooling center, or use fans or the shade to stay cool.
The CDC adds wearing light-fitted clothing and avoiding sugary beverages can help lessen the chance of heat-related illness.
If you begin to experience symptoms of heat stroke or other heat-related illnesses, such as headache, lightheadedness or if you become less sweaty, seek medical attention from an emergency department.
More information on extreme heat can be found on the CDC website.
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