Tips for recognizing and preventing heat-related illnesses

Beat the heat

Story by Alison Studemann

The Lowcountry is infamous for its sweltering summer heat, where temperatures often reach unbearable levels. From June through August temperatures routinely climb into the 90s, compounded by humidity that blankets the region. This perfect storm of heat and humidity often results in heat-related illnesses that both locals and visitors must contend with. 

As a rule of thumb, knowing and recognizing the symptoms of common heat-related illnesses is crucial. 

“If you’re going to be outdoors for long periods, pay attention to symptoms of heat-related illness,” said Dr. Michael Kaup, a board-certified emergency physician at Beaufort Memorial Express Care. “Muscle cramps in the abdomen, legs or arms are a sign of heat cramps. Weakness, loss of appetite, dizziness and excessive sweating with pale, moist, cool skin are symptoms of heat exhaustion. You may also experience nausea, the urge to defecate, chills, rapid breathing, confusion and tingling of the hands or feet.”

Kaup cautions that heat stroke, the most serious heat-related illness, can occur when the body is unable to regulate its core temperature. 

“Signs include headache, dizziness, stomach pains, confusion, weakness, sudden loss of consciousness, seizures, hot and dry skin and a weak and rapid pulse and respiration,” he said. “This is a medical emergency that needs immediate attention.”

Heat stroke

Heat stroke is the most severe heat-related illness, occurring when the body loses the ability to regulate its temperature after extended sun exposure. Those most at risk include adults over 65, young children, outdoor workers and athletes. 

“Important risk factors for nonexertional or classic heat stroke include underlying physiological or anatomical predispositions, chronic medical conditions impairing thermoregulation, lack of access to hydration or cooling,” said Dr. Drew Matthews, the emergency department medical director at Hilton Head Hospital. 

Symptoms include high body temperature, hot and dry skin, rapid pulse, throbbing headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion and loss of consciousness. Immediate treatment is crucial. 

Nicole Clegg, from Main Street Medical, recommends: “Seek immediate help, or call 911. Try to get them in the shade. Offer fluids if available, spray them with water, fan them or place ice packs on their head, neck, armpits or groin to cool them until help arrives.”

To prevent heat stroke, stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day. 

“Cease athletic activities when the heat index is too high,” Matthews advises. “When it feels like 103 degrees and more, weather conditions are in the danger zone for heat-related illness with prolonged exposure or strenuous activity.”

Heat exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is often caused by dehydration and extensive sun exposure. It is most common among those working or exercising in high temperatures, older adults, young children and people with certain medical conditions. 

“As we age, our body’s ability to regulate temperature decreases due to cardiovascular conditions, medications or chronic illnesses,” Clegg explained. “After age 65 the central nervous system deteriorates, making it harder to cope with extreme temperature changes.”

Recognizable symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, fatigue, dizziness, headache, nausea and fainting. Most cases can be treated at home by moving to a cooler environment and rehydrating with water or sports drinks. 

“Heat acclimation provides the best protection against heat exhaustion and heat stroke, but it takes repeated exposures to heat over 7-14 days with progressively increasing intensity and duration of physical activity,” Matthews said. 

Heat cramps

Heat cramps are painful muscle contractions during or after intense exercise in high temperatures, often caused by dehydration and electrolyte deficiencies. 

“Stay well hydrated, and drink fluids with electrolytes to prevent cramping from dehydration,” Clegg said. “Plan strenuous outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day, and avoid excess or tight clothing.”

Symptoms include sudden, painful muscle spasms in the legs, arms and abdominal muscles. Treatment involves moving to a cooler area, gently stretching and massaging the affected muscle and rehydrating with electrolyte-rich fluids.

Heat rash

Heat rash, a common skin condition in hot, humid environments, is caused by blocked sweat ducts. It is most common in babies and those who sweat excessively. Recognizable by small red bumps or tiny, clear blisters, it is often itchy and sometimes prickly. Treatment includes applying anti-itch creams, wearing loose clothing and keeping the rash cool and dry. To avoid heat rash, take breaks in cool environments, and use air conditioning to reduce humidity.

Sun poisoning

Sun poisoning, or severe sunburn, results from overexposure to UV rays. Those with fair skin, young children, people on sun-sensitive medications and those without protective measures are at higher risk. Symptoms include severe sunburn with blistering, swelling, pain, headache, fever, nausea and dehydration. Treatment involves cooling the affected area, applying soothing lotions or aloe vera, staying hydrated and taking pain relievers. In extreme cases, medical attention may be necessary. 

“Those with an extensive blistering sunburn, severe pain and systemic symptoms may require hospitalization for fluid replacement and IV pain medication,” Matthews said.

Dehydration

Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in, leading to electrolyte imbalances. It is most likely after prolonged sun exposure. Those most at risk include infants, young children, older adults, athletes and people with chronic illnesses. 

“Symptoms include dry mouth, headache, dizziness, dark-colored urine and decreased urine output,” said Kaup. 

Treatment involves replenishing fluids with water or electrolyte-rich drinks. Dr. Kaup suggests staying away from drinks with added sugar and alcoholic beverages, as both can actually make you less hydrated.

“Your mother probably told you this already, but if you don’t drink enough water, you’ll become dehydrated,” he said. “Start by drinking one quart of water in the morning, at each meal and throughout your day. It’s better to drink small amounts of water often than large amounts all at once.”

Hottest days in Lowcountry history 

June 3, 1985:
108 degrees (Yemassee)

July 20, 1986:
107 degrees (Hilton Head Island) 

June 27, 1950:
107 degrees (Ridgeland) 

July 8, 2010:
102 degrees (Bluffton)