Heat-related illness symptoms, remedies, and precautions for surviving excessive heat
Every year, hundreds of lives are lost in the United States due to heatstroke, a serious condition that occurs when the body's core temperature rises excessively, leading to widespread cellular injury and systemic inflammation. On average, 38 children die in hot cars annually, and approximately 600 people are killed by extreme heat every year [1].
Heatstroke can manifest in two forms: exertional heatstroke, caused by intense activity in a hot environment, and nonexertional or classic heatstroke, which results from prolonged exposure to a particularly hot environment [2]. Symptoms include a high body temperature (103°F or higher), nausea, headache, increased heart rate, cessation of sweat, color change (skin may turn red), mental changes (confusion and loss of consciousness), and possible skin dryness or dampness [2].
If left untreated, heatstroke can lead to damage to internal organs, and in some cases, it can be fatal. Long-term effects can be severe and potentially lifelong, affecting multiple organs and increasing vulnerability to environmental and lifestyle-related health issues [3][5].
Brain damage is a significant long-term consequence of heatstroke. It can cause convulsions, brain swelling, and permanent damage to neurons, potentially resulting in lasting cognitive or neurological impairments [3]. Heatstroke also stresses the cardiovascular system, potentially leading to cardiac arrhythmias, heart attack, and an increased risk of heart failure [1][3].
The breakdown of skeletal muscle during heatstroke (rhabdomyolysis) releases harmful substances into the bloodstream, which can cause acute kidney injury and long-lasting kidney damage [3]. Dehydration and reduced blood supply during heatstroke can cause acute liver damage, and skeletal muscle breakdown can lead to ongoing muscle weakness or pain [3].
Heatstroke may disturb the coagulation system, causing either excessive bleeding or dangerous blood clots, and severe cases can cause acute respiratory distress syndrome, leading to low blood oxygen levels [3]. Individuals who survive heatstroke often have reduced tolerance to environmental heat, making them more vulnerable to future heat-related illnesses [3].
Preventive measures such as staying well-hydrated, dressing appropriately, avoiding excessive heat exposure, and prompt treatment of heatstroke are critical to minimise these long-term impacts [3][5]. Factors that increase the likelihood of heatstroke include exertion in high temperatures, age, medications, sudden exposure, sleep deprivation, medical conditions, and being at the beginning of a heatwave or visiting a much hotter climate [4].
Some medications that can increase the risk of heatstroke include vasoconstrictors, beta-blockers, diuretics, some antidepressants, and some antipsychotics [4]. Wearing too much clothing, not replacing water lost to sweating, and drinking alcohol can exacerbate the problem by affecting the body's temperature regulation [4].
Heatstroke, also known as sunstroke, is a serious condition that must be considered an emergency. In the U.S., it kills more people than hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, and lightning combined [1]. The main aim of treating heatstroke is to lower the patient's temperature and prevent further damage [5]. Treatment methods include immersion in cold water or an ice bath, evaporation cooling, using cooling blankets and ice packs, and avoiding alcohol while waiting for professional medical help [5].
Medical professionals can usually diagnose heatstroke based on a person's appearance and a discussion about their recent history, and they may order tests such as blood tests, urine tests, and chest X-rays to rule out other potential causes [5]. A study investigating the long-term outcomes of a heatwave in France found that 71% of people with heatstroke died within 2 years [6]. However, a study after the 1995 heatwave in Chicago found that almost half of participants died within a year, and one-third had a "moderate to severe functional impairment" that was not relieved after 12 months [6].
In summary, heatstroke can cause permanent damage to the brain, heart, kidneys, liver, muscles, lungs, and blood clotting processes, resulting in chronic health problems and reduced heat tolerance that affect quality of life and increase risk of future health complications. It is crucial to take preventive measures and seek prompt medical attention when necessary to minimise the risk of heatstroke and its long-term effects.
- A survivor of heatstroke may experience lasting cognitive or neurological impairments due to brain damage caused by the condition.
- Heatstroke can lead to long-lasting kidney damage, as it triggers the breakdown of skeletal muscle and releases harmful substances into the bloodstream.
- Exposure to a hot environment can stress the cardiovascular system, potentially leading to cardiac arrhythmias, heart attack, and an increased risk of heart failure.
- Preventive measures for heatstroke include staying well-hydrated, dressing appropriately, avoiding excessive heat exposure, and prompt treatment, which are crucial to minimise long-term impacts on health.
- heatstroke survivors often have reduced tolerance to environmental heat, making them more vulnerable to future heat-related illnesses.
- Some medications, such as vasoconstrictors, beta-blockers, diuretics, certain antidepressants, and antipsychotics, can increase the risk of heatstroke.
- Mental health therapies and treatments, good nutrition, and regular fitness and exercise are valuable components of overall health and wellness, which should be maintained to support the body's resilience against chronic diseases and respiratory conditions.
