How excessive heat could be deadly for the body
For those who are active outdoors during the summer, there is always the possibility of running into a heat-related illness.
In intense heat, the human body regulates its own temperature by producing sweat to cool itself. However, the body has its limits, and when it reaches or exceeds them, it can result in heat exhaustion — or worse, heat stroke.
“Heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses too much water and salt,” said Dr. Alyssa Tomsey, emergency department medical director at Butler Memorial Hospital. “Symptoms include dizziness; headaches; nausea and vomiting; muscle cramps; and excessive sweating.”
Heat stroke, on the other hand, occurs when the body’s heat regulation system ceases functioning altogether, causing body temperature to rise to dangerously high levels. This is a life-threatening condition that can leave permanent effects on the body.
“Heat stroke is more severe and can be life-threatening,” Tomsey said. “Symptoms include extremely high body temperature; rapid pulse and heart rate; hot, dry skin; confusion; loss of consciousness; and seizures.”
According to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association last year, there were 2,325 heat-related deaths recorded in the United States by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2023. However, these figures are not limited strictly to heat stroke.
For those who come down with heat stroke and survive, they may face long-term and permanent physical damage.
“Heat stroke can lead to failure of multiple vital organs, and even cardiac arrest,” said Ray Viducich, associate chief of emergency medicine at UPMC Passavant Hospital. “Multisystem organ failure may also be seen in patients with heat stroke. Damage to the liver, kidneys and cardiovascular system can be seen.”
Both Tomsey and Viducich say that some individuals with preexisting conditions are more prone to heat-related illnesses than others.
“There are specific populations that are most vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. In general, these individuals have a limited ability to regulate their body temperature,” Viduchich said. “This includes, but is not limited to, the very young and the elderly, those who take certain medications, patients with chronic disease, and those with social and/or economic limitations.”
“Anyone with underlying medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, thyroid disease, lung problems and strokes are at increased risk,” Tomsey said.
While it may not always be possible for everyone to completely eliminate the risk of heat exhaustion or stroke during the summer, there are ways to mitigate it.
“Try to stay out of the heat during the peak times of the day,” Tomsey said. “If you do have to be outside, find shade, drink lots of cool water or electrolyte replacement drinks. Wear light-colored or lightweight clothes.”
