As summer returns to northeast and central Wisconsin, outdoor activities such as swimming, boating, cycling, and hiking are in full swing. However, the rising temperatures also bring potential health risks related to heat.
A study on heat-related deaths in the United States from 1999 to 2023 highlights that 2023 was the hottest year on record, with over 2,300 heat-related deaths reported compared to just over 300 in 2004.
Dr. William Kumprey, Associate Chief Medical Officer of ThedaCare Emergency Medicine, emphasizes the importance of safety during these hot months. “Becoming overheated can be a serious health concern,” he stated. He explained that it takes several days for bodies to adjust to hot conditions, making people more susceptible to heat issues during unusually warm weather.
Heat-related illnesses are primarily categorized into heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Heat exhaustion occurs when excessive fluid and salt are lost through sweating. Those at higher risk include infants, individuals over 65 years old, those with chronic medical conditions or on certain medications, outdoor workers, and athletes.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion may include heavy sweating, cold or clammy skin, rapid pulse, muscle cramps, nausea, weakness or tiredness, and headache. Dr. Kumprey advises moving affected individuals to a cooler environment and ensuring they rest and hydrate. If symptoms persist after an hour, medical care should be sought.
Heatstroke is more severe and considered a medical emergency when body temperature exceeds 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Symptoms include flushed skin without sweating, rapid pulse and breathing, throbbing headache, nausea or vomiting, dizziness or confusion. Immediate action involves calling 911 and cooling the person down while waiting for emergency services.
Car safety is crucial during summer months as well. “It’s never appropriate to leave a child or pet in the car during the summer,” Dr. Kumprey said. According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data, about 40 children die each year from being left in cars.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that car temperatures can rise by nearly 20 degrees Fahrenheit within ten minutes even with windows cracked open.
To mitigate risks associated with extreme heat conditions Dr. Kumprey suggests paying attention to weather forecasts especially regarding advisories planning outdoor activities during cooler parts of day staying hydrated wearing appropriate clothing avoiding strenuous activity at peak temperatures
“It’s crucial to heed the signs of heat-related illness,” Dr Kumprey stressed “Take appropriate steps keep yourself others safe call 911 event suspected heatstroke”
