Although Minnesota is known for its cold winters, summer heat can be just as dangerous. Hot, humid weather can overwhelm the body’s ability to cool itself, leading to heat-related illnesses ranging from mild discomfort to life-threatening emergencies.
Heat-related illness occurs when the body is unable to get rid of excess heat and maintain a safe internal temperature. This imbalance happens when the body can’t cool itself fast enough. As the body overheats, blood vessels expand and the heart must work harder and faster to try to cool the body down.
This strain can lead to dehydration, fatigue, confusion, and weakness. When dehydration becomes severe, sweating may stop, and the body can no longer regulate its temperature, increasing the risk of serious heat illness.
Extreme heat can be especially dangerous for older adults, young children, people who work outdoors, and those with chronic health conditions. Knowing the warning signs can help you stay safe and seek care when needed.
Heat stroke: Heat stroke is a condition caused by the body overheating, usually because of prolonged exposure to or physical exertion in high temperatures. Symptoms include high body temperature (104°F or higher); hot, red, dry, or damp skin; fast, strong pulse; headache; dizziness; nausea; confusion; slurred speech; and loss of consciousness.
What to do: Call 9-1-1 immediately. Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Move the person to a cooler location and lower their body temperature using cool cloths, ice packs, or a cool bath if available. Do not give the person anything to drink.
Without prompt treatment, heat stroke can cause damage to the brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles. Delayed treatment significantly increases the risk of serious complications or death.
Heat exhaustion: Exposure to extreme heat can cause a person to lose minerals and fluids. Symptoms include heavy sweating; cold, pale, and clammy skin; fast, weak pulse; nausea or vomiting; muscle cramps; tiredness or weakness; dizziness; headache; and fainting or passing out.
What to do: Move to a cool place. Loosen clothing and apply cool, wet cloth to the skin or take a cool bath. Sip water slowly. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen, vomiting occurs, or symptoms last longer than an hour.
Heat cramps: The loss of body fluids and minerals can cause painful heat cramps, which typically affect people who work outside. Symptoms include heavy sweating during intense exercise and muscle pain or spasms.
What to do: Stop physical activity and rest in a cool location. Drink water or a sports beverage and wait until cramps resolve before resuming activity. Seek medical care if cramps last longer than an hour, if you have heart problems, or if you’re on a low-sodium diet.
Severe sunburn: Symptoms include red, painful and warm skin, and blisters on the skin.
What to do: Stay out of the sun until the burn heals. Use cool compresses or take a cool bath to relieve discomfort. Apply moisturizer to soothe the skin. Avoid breaking blisters, which can increase the risk of infection
Heat rash: Symptoms include red clusters of small blisters resembling pimples. The rash commonly appears on the neck, chest, groin, or elbow creases.
What to do: Move to a cool, dry environment and keep the affected area dry. Applying baby powder or another soothing powder can help reduce irritation and discomfort.
“At Riverwood Healthcare Center, our highly trained emergency department team is ready to care for patients with urgent injuries or illnesses,” said Dr. David Taylor, Chief Medical Officer and emergency medicine physician. “Never hesitate to call 9-1-1 in a medical emergency. Enjoy your summer but make sure you take steps to stay safe in the heat.”