Summer's higher temps can increase risk of heat-related injuries

Ocala, FL — HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and HCA Florida West Marion Hospital encourage all Marion County residents to take precautions as escalating outdoor temperatures increase the risk of heat-related injuries.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heat-related injuries, such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion and dehydration, sent more than 5,800 Floridians to a hospital emergency room in 2022, the most recent year for which data is available. That was the most of any state. Florida that year also recorded 25.2 heat and heat-related illness emergency department visits per 100,000 people, the sixth-highest rate in the country.

“It's important to stay hydrated, avoid the sun during the hottest times of the day between 10:00am and 4:00pm, and take breaks in the shade or inside whenever possible, especially if you work outdoors,” advises Dr. Richard Petrik, director of emergency medicine for HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and HCA Florida West Marion Hospital. “It’s also important to reduce strenuous activity during peak hours and check on others who may be more susceptible to heat stroke or heat exhaustion, such as older adults, small children, and anyone with special medical needs.”

The Florida Department of Health defines extreme heat as a condition when high temperatures, coupled with high humidity, overwhelm the human body’s natural cooling mechanisms. Extreme heat creates a greater risk for heat-related injuries for the elderly, small children, people with heart, lung, or kidney issues, or on specific medications, and outdoor workers.

To prevent heat-related injuries, people should know the symptoms, monitor weather reports, and take appropriate measures.

Heat stroke

Heat stroke is the most serious and occurs when the body can no longer control its temperature and is unable to cool down.

Symptoms of heat stroke include:

• Confusion, altered mental status, slurred speech
• Loss of consciousness
• Hot, dry skin or profuse sweating
• Seizures
• Very high body temperature

Heat stroke could be fatal if treatment is delayed.

Heat exhaustion

Heat exhaustion occurs when the body experiences an excessive loss of water and salt, most likely through excessive sweating.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Irritability
• Thirst
• Heavy sweating
• Elevated body temperature
• Decreased urine output

If you experience or encounter someone experiencing either of these conditions, seek medical attention immediately, including calling 911 if necessary.

Preventative measures for heat-related illness include:

• Stay hydrated: Drink water or sports drinks to prevent dehydration.
• Stay out of the sun: Stick to air-conditioned areas as much as possible; wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. If outdoors, use sunscreen.
• Take breaks: Rest often in cool or shaded areas during outdoor activities.
• Limit activity: Avoid strenuous tasks during hours of peak heat (10 a.m.-4 p.m.).
• Check on others: Look out for seniors, kids, and those with medical conditions.