Recognizing and Responding to Heat Illness

As summer temperatures rise, so does the risk of heat-related illness, especially in the South, where heat and humidity often go hand in hand. 

Angel M. Johnson, MD, MPH, with Hattiesburg Clinic Immediate Care – Petal, is sharing important information to help people recognize the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and what steps to take if symptoms occur.

Heat Exhaustion vs. Heat Stroke

While both conditions are caused by the body overheating, there are critical differences between heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

“With heat exhaustion, you’re feeling weak or tired,” Dr. Johnson says. “You might notice increased sweating, cool and clammy skin, nausea or vomiting, and a sense of lightheadedness or faintness.”

If untreated, heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, a life-threatening emergency.

“With heat stroke, the symptoms you experience with heat exhaustion go to the extreme,” she explains.

Heat stroke occurs when the body’s temperature rises to 104°F or higher and is no longer able to cool itself. Warning signs may include confusion, rapid heartbeat, hot and dry skin (or profuse sweating), fainting, seizures or loss of consciousness. Immediate medical attention is critical to prevent organ damage or death.

How to Respond to Heat Exhaustion

If you or someone around you is showing signs of heat exhaustion, it is important to act quickly. 

“If you feel like you’re experiencing heat exhaustion, the main thing to do is remove yourself from the heat,” Johnson advises.

Move to a cooler area, rest and hydrate with water or a sports drink. Applying cool compresses or misting the skin with water can also help lower body temperature.

For suspected heat stroke, do not wait – call 911 immediately. Try to cool the person down while waiting for help but avoid giving them fluids if they are unconscious or not fully alert.

“With heat exhaustion, I always say that is a warning,” Johnson says. “If you are confused about whether you have heat exhaustion or heat stroke, it’s important to just seek medical attention.”

How to Prevent Heat Exhaustion

The best way to avoid heat-related illness is to plan ahead and take precautions during outdoor activities:

  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, even if you do not feel thirsty.
  • Take frequent breaks in the shade or indoors.
  • Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
  • Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day (typically 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

Whether you are working, exercising or spending time outside, it is important to listen to your body and know the signs of heat stress. Prompt action can help prevent serious complications and keep you and your loved ones safe this summer. 

“If you feel like you’re experiencing heat exhaustion, schedule an appointment at Immediate Care – Petal so we can monitor you, assess your vitals and give you the appropriate treatment,” Johnson says.

For mor information, contact Immediate Care – Petal at (601) 705-2897 or visit www.hattiesburgclinic.com.

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About Hattiesburg Clinic Immediate Care – Petal: 

Hattiesburg Clinic Immediate Care – Petal provides quality, convenient and personal medical care for patients with acute care needs. The clinic accommodates patients who need to see a provider promptly and do not have a life-threatening condition. Minor accidents and injuries do not always occur during normal business hours. In the event of an accident or minor illness, Hattiesburg Clinic Immediate Care – Petal offers after-hours care to meet the needs of your family. The clinic has a walk-in model that allows the providers to give direct medical attention to patients, during the week and on weekends.

About Hattiesburg Clinic:

Hattiesburg Clinic is Mississippi’s largest privately-owned, multispecialty clinic. Founded in 1963, Hattiesburg Clinic has expanded to include over 450 physicians and providers, along with 2,500 employees, serving patients across more than 17 counties in Mississippi. Hattiesburg Clinic is committed to being the health care provider of choice in the communities we serve.