With elevated to significant threats of excessive heat in Florida over the next several days, doctors at local-area hospitals are bracing for an influx of patients suffering from heat exhaustion and life-threatening heat stroke.
The chief culprit? High humidity levels which, combined with rising air temperatures, create dangerously hot conditions.
“We tend to set aside the dangers of heat when we don’t hear about extreme or record-breaking temperatures, but with high humidity, the heat index can sneak up on people and have just as big an impact,” explained Dr. Erik Petersen, a board-certified emergency medicine physician at HCA Florida Twin Cities Hospital.
The heat index is the “feels-like” temperature when humidity is combined with air temperature.
Dr. Petersen says people particularly vulnerable to high heat index levels include the elderly, young children, those with chronic illnesses or pre-existing conditions, outdoor workers and women who are pregnant.
“Older adults retain more heat and their cardiovascular systems often have a harder time compensating, while children tend to take longer to sweat and acclimate to an elevated heat index,” Dr. Petersen said.
Dr. Petersen advises wearing lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing to help keep cool as well as the following tips:
• During the hottest times of the day, remain in air-conditioned space as much as possible.
• If you need to be outside, take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
• Apply sunscreen to prevent sunburn, which can affect a body’s ability to cool itself.
Medical professionals recommend taking prompt action to address symptoms of heat exhaustion such as heavy sweating, weakness, fatigue or dizziness, nausea or muscle cramps. Move the affected person to a cooler location, preferably an air-conditioned space or at least a shaded area. Drink water and take a cool bath to reduce body temperature. If symptoms get worse or don't improve promptly, seek medical help right away.
