When Does Heat Become a Health Hazard? ER Doctor Reveals the Warning Signs

With rising summer temperatures, instances of heat-induced sickness also increase.

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Sudden or intense heat waves can pose significant dangers, particularly for individuals who have specific vulnerability factors, according to Dr. Katelyn Moretti, an assistant professor in emergency medicine at Brown University's Warren Alpert Medical School and an emergency medicine doctor at Miriam Hospital and Women and Infants Hospital in Providence.

Individuals typically feel most at ease when their body temperature is approximately 98 degrees Fahrenheit, and situations causing an elevation beyond 100 degrees can lead to issues. Hospital admissions tend to rise when outside temperatures exceed 85 degrees, particularly under conditions of high humidity and significant temperature fluctuations, according to Moretti.

"People from colder regions might find it more challenging to cope with intense heat compared to individuals in the southern areas, who could be accustomed to such conditions," noted Moretti, an individual whose work focuses on the health effects of climate change and the relationship between the healthcare sector and environmental factors, as well as being a co-founder of the Rhode Island Medical Society’s Climate Change and Health Committee.

With rising summer temperatures, Moretti explained the impact of intense heat on the human body and ways individuals can effectively safeguard their health.

How does intense high temperature affect the human body?

The body reacts to heat by expanding blood vessels in the arms and legs, directing more blood toward the outer parts of the body. As a result, heat escapes the body via perspiration, transferring into the surrounding air and nearby surfaces, leading to a cooling sensation. Nevertheless, this process reduces the amount of blood reaching essential organs like the heart and kidneys. Moreover, excessive sweating leads to the depletion of both water and sodium, potentially resulting in dehydration. This poses significant risks, particularly for individuals who are on drugs that regulate their bodily fluids and electrolyte balance.

If the body's natural cooling systems do not function correctly—as may happen due to long-term illness, certain medications, or very high outside temperatures—exposure to heat can lead to kidney failure, heart attacks, brain injury, and potentially death.

Which factors commonly lead individuals to visit the emergency room when temperatures rise?

Individuals often visit the hospital when outdoor temperatures become excessively high, yet there are numerous heat-related conditions that pose significant risks. In times of extreme heat, we frequently observe worsening symptoms of heart and kidney diseases, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, and asthma. Additionally, there is a notable rise in psychological concerns such as depression, schizophrenia, and suicidal tendencies.

What role does moisture play in increasing dangers from high temperatures?

High moisture levels enhance the impact of warmth. When humidity surpasses 75% to 80%, perspiration becomes less efficient at lowering body temperature. In situations where elevated humidity combines with temperatures higher than the typical human body temperature of 98°F, it becomes significantly more difficult for the body to regulate its heat. During the latest period of extreme heat, which went beyond those limits of heat and humidity, numerous cases were reported—among them, workers who had been laboring outdoors—who arrived at the emergency room suffering from severe overheat conditions.

What are several elements that raise an individual's chances of experiencing heat-associated health issues?

Individuals who have difficulty accessing cooler environments face increased risks, such as homeless individuals, those working outside, and people with disabilities or older adults. Moreover, many senior citizens take medications that increase their likelihood of becoming dehydrated.

Additionally vulnerable are individuals suffering from chronic kidney or heart ailments, those experiencing mental health disorders who might find their regular treatments interfere with the body’s temperature control mechanisms, as well as young children—whose hormone systems are still maturing, making them prone to dehydration more quickly than grown-ups and potentially unaware of rising temperatures until it becomes life-threatening.

In periods of extreme heat, there tends to be more issues related to pregnancies since the body must exert extra effort to maintain cooling for both the expectant mother and the growing fetus. Studies indicate that being pregnant raises the chances of experiencing heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and additional heat-associated health problems. A link exists between encountering intense heat throughout pregnancy and cases of lower than average birth weight and premature deliveries.

What impact do persistent elevated temperatures have on well-being?

Persistently high temperatures, even during the night, can be very damaging since the body lacks opportunity to lower its temperature and rejuvenate. Long-term exposure is expected to negatively impact health over time, with greater risks for those who are more susceptible.

How can individuals protect themselves during a severe heatwave?

Keeping yourself properly hydrated and staying cool are essential steps. Be cautious with diuretic drinks such as those containing caffeine or alcohol. Although they might seem to quench your thirst, alcohol, in particular, can lead to significant dehydration. It’s wise to consume water along with these kinds of drinks to help replace lost fluids. During periods of extreme heat and humidity, think about avoiding intense physical activity. What signs of heat-related illnesses should individuals watch for?

If you begin to experience overheating, you might perspire heavily and feel an intense thirst; your mouth could also turn dry. When using the restroom, you may observe that your urine appears dark yellow. These warning signs can develop into indicators of heat exhaustion, such as headaches, lightheadedness, an increased heart rate, and feelings of sickness. Halt your current activities and respond immediately.

What actions should an individual take upon identifying signs of a heat-induced health issue?

Quickly move to a cooler area or at least a shadier spot—seek out shade, head indoors where there is air conditioning. Perhaps find the nearest location cooling center In your neighborhood. Consume liquids, and if possible, drink something such as Gatorade containing electrolytes to replenish what you lose via sweating. Mist your skin with water, or have a cold bath. Avoid overexertion—rest properly. You will realize you are safe once you begin feeling back to normal, although this might require several hours.

When do individuals need to contact a physician?

Consult a healthcare professional immediately if you experience confusion or notice any alarming signs like chest discomfort, ongoing muscle spasms, warm and parched skin, or intense head pain.

What have you discovered through your studies on climate change and health concerning extreme heat events?

Our study reveals that negative health consequences can happen at temperature levels lower than commonly believed. In particular, we observe increased dangers when temperatures exceed 72 degrees Fahrenheit, with noticeable health effects even in the 80s — not only during severe heatwaves. We are now examining specific causes for hospital admissions — including heart, lung, and kidney conditions — which we think have been overlooked in conventional evaluations of heat-induced illnesses.

We are also investigating whether heat during the early season could lead to more severe health effects compared to heat later in the summer, as indicated by previous studies. Furthermore, we have noted higher emergency medical service interactions in urban heat island areas, where buildings and surroundings amplify heat levels.

With rising summer temperatures caused by climate change, we anticipate an rise in both the number and seriousness of heat-related medical conditions. Efforts are underway to combine health effect models with climate forecasts to predict upcoming public health challenges.

Provided by Brown University

This narrative first appeared on Medical Xpress .

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