Heat-Related Illnesses: When to Seek Emergency Care
Posted in
With July and August typically bringing Oklahoma’s hottest temperatures, INTEGRIS Health encourages residents to understand the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke and know when symptoms require emergency medical care.
As temperatures climb into the upper 90s and beyond, the body’s ability to cool itself can become overwhelmed. While many people recover from heat exhaustion with rest and hydration, heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate treatment.
“Heat-related illnesses can progress quickly, especially during prolonged exposure to high temperatures,” says Mark Osborn, advanced practice provider at INTEGRIS Health AllSet Urgent Care South Edmond. “Recognizing the symptoms early and seeking care when necessary can prevent serious complications.”
Heat exhaustion - warning signs
Heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses excessive amounts of water and salt through sweating.
Symptoms may include:
- Excessive sweating
- Pale, clammy skin
- Nausea, vomiting
- Headache
- Muscle cramps, weakness
- Dizziness or fainting
- Fast heart rate, weakened pulse
If someone is experiencing heat exhaustion, move them to a cool location, encourage fluids if they are alert, loosen clothing and apply wet cloths. Symptoms often improve with prompt treatment and rest.
Heat stroke - a medical emergency
Heat stroke occurs when the body’s temperature regulation system fails, causing the core body temperature to rise rapidly. Without immediate treatment, heat stroke can damage the brain, heart, kidneys and muscles.
What often starts as dehydration or heat exhaustion can quickly progress to heat stroke, especially in older adults, outdoor workers and athletes.
“Heat stroke is a true medical emergency,” says Joseph Love, D.O., the trauma medical director at the INTEGRIS Health Trauma Center at INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center. “Recognizing the warning signs and getting patients to emergency care quickly can be lifesaving.”
Signs of heat stroke include:
- Body temperature of 103 degrees or higher
- Red, hot skin that may be dry or damp
- Confusion, slurred speech, altered mental status or disorientation
- Fast heart rate, strong pulse
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
“If someone becomes confused, loses consciousness or has a seizure after being in the heat, call 911 immediately,” says Chelsey Gilbertson, D.O., an emergency medicine specialist who serves as vice president and chief medical officer at INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center. “Delaying treatment can lead to permanent organ damage or even death within a short period of time.”
Risk and prevention
Older adults, infants and young children, outdoor workers, athletes and people with chronic medical conditions face a higher risk of developing heat-related illnesses. Certain medications can also affect the body’s ability to regulate temperature and stay hydrated.
The best defense against heat illness is prevention.
“We are seeing an increase in heat-related emergencies at the INTEGRIS Health Trauma Center,” says Love. “Extreme heat can overwhelm the body in minutes. Please stay hydrated, take frequent breaks and check on those who may be at risk.”
When heat-related symptoms arise, choosing the right level of care can make all the difference. For mild to moderate symptoms of heat exhaustion, visit an INTEGRIS Health AllSet Urgent Care location for prompt evaluation and treatment. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of heat stroke, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
AllSet Urgent Care in 30 Minutes or Less
Experience healthcare like never before. Your dedicated clinical concierge at AllSet Urgent Care is here to attend to your every need from the moment you step in.
