What to know about heat stroke
By Carla Slavey
It’ s no wonder that July is Heat Stroke Awareness month in the U. S., since summer is the hottest time of the year and the time in which most heat strokes occur.
Heat stroke, as defined by the Mayo Clinic, is a condition caused by the body overheating. That can happen when someone is exposed to high temperatures for a long period of time, or when someone is doing physical activity in a high-heat environment.
The Mayo Clinic states that heat stroke happens if a person’ s body temperature rises to 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. If not treated, it can cause brain, heart, kidney and / or muscle damage and can lead to death. The Centers for Disease Control’ s National Institute for Occupation Safety and Health says that symptoms of heat stroke include confusion, slurred speech or an altered mental status; hot, dry skin or profuse sweating; seizures; and a loss of consciousness.
This is primarily caused by the body’ s sweating mechanism – one of the primary ways the body regulates temperature when it overheats – fails. Sweat, the liquid on the skin, evaporates in the breeze. According to the Cleveland Clinic, that cools the skin and the tissues underneath, and helps the body remain at its normal temperature, typically 98.6 degrees.
Sweat is not only made up of water, but it also contains salt. When someone sweats a lot in one session, they can lose major amounts of water and salt. Losing too much of each means the body can become overwhelmed by heat, according to the Canyon Vista Medical Center’ s website. This is why it’ s important to not only stay hydrated, but to consider drinking sports drinks or having something on hand that replenishes electrolytes.
Canyon Vista Medical Center also offered some other tips for preventing heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses:
• Be aware of temperature and humidity levels in your area and avoid going outdoors for activities or exercise in extreme heat.
• Use an SPF-15 or higher sunscreen that protects against both UV-A and UV-B rays, applying 30 minutes prior to exposure and reapplying accordingly.
• Never leave infants, children or animals in cars unattended, even if the windows are cracked open.
• Take frequent breaks when enjoying the outdoors, especially if you are not accustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment.
• Break out your favorite lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing.
• Take advantage of cooler areas( even when outside), and when the temperature rises above 90 degrees, consider switching to an indoor activity.
26 • SEKY- Southeast Kentucky Life JULY 2025