Heat-Related Illnesses Causes and Prevention for Phoenix Families

Living in Phoenix and surrounding areas means we’re exposed to extremely high temperatures during the summer months. During these warmer months, the chances of experiencing a serious heat-related illness increases. Valley residents should know which signs to watch for and be prepared to spring into action. Phoenix Family Medical Clinic is an urgent care facility with five valley locations for your convenience. Keep reading to learn more about the most common heat-related illnesses and what you can do to prevent them or treat them should they occur.

Whether from prolonged sun exposure, or performing strenuous activing in warm temperatures, a heat-related illness can affect you in various ways. The following are the four most common heat illnesses experienced in Phoenix:

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion occurs when a person exercises or performs high intensity activity in a warm environment. A person’s body will start to generate more heat than their body can dissipate. The symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, cold and clammy skin, fast weak pulse, headache, dizziness, or weakness. If you experience any of these symptoms, immediately move to a cool place, loosen any tight clothing, put a cool wet cloth on your forehead or in your underarm area, and take small sips of water. These actions encourage the body to recover from distress and help speed up the natural ability to cool down.

Heat Stroke

If heat exhaustion persists or isn’t treated right away, it could develop into an extremely serious condition known as heat stroke. Symptoms of heat stroke are the same as heat exhaustion only intensified. It can also present as nausea, vomiting, confusion, high body temperature (103° or higher), and even loss of consciousness. If any of these symptoms occur, call 9-1-1 immediately and then move the affected person to a cool place. Help cool them down by using wet cloths by placing them on their forehead, feet, hands and their underarms. Do not allow them to drink anything.

Heat Cramps

This heat-related illness also occurs during strenuous activity in warm environments. The symptoms include heavy sweating, or more than usual, while exercising as well as muscle pain or spasms. If you experience any of these symptoms, you’ll want to stop exercising immediately and move to a cool place. Drink plenty of water and wait for the cramps to subside. Seek medical help if the cramps last longer than one hour.

Sunburn

As one of the most common heat related illnesses in the Valley, sunburns can be dangerous if not prevented or properly cared for. A sunburn will present itself with painful red and warm skin, and in severe cases, form blisters on the skin. If you feel a sunburn coming, make sure to stay out of direct sunlight. To relive pain you can apply cool cloths to the burns and apply lightweight lotion. If blisters do appear, be sure not to break them. It’s natural for the skin to start peeling as it heals. Keep it moisturized with a soothing lotion, Aloe Vera, or even coconut oil.

Prevention

There are a few sure ways to prevent heat-related illnesses from the beginning. Follow these steps to keep you and your family safe this summer:

Stay Hydrated – If you are spending time outside, make sure you pack drinking water. Becoming dehydrated can prevent your body from cooling down properly and can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Apply Sunscreen – Most sunscreen only lasts up to two hours, less if there is water present. Plan on bringing sunscreen with you and reapply it frequently.

Wear Appropriate Clothing – Full coverage clothing can prevent sunburns but can also make you overheat. Choose lightweight, light-colored fabrics that are loose fitting to stay safe and comfortable.

Schedule Outdoor Times – If your family has outdoor plans this summer, make sure you stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day. This is usually between the hours of 2:00 – 4:00 in the afternoon. Plan to stay indoors during these hot times if possible.

Don’t get caught in the sun without a plan this summer. Inform your family and help them prevent these serious conditions. If an emergency does occur, follow the steps outlined in this blog and make note of any symptoms before visiting a local physician. Phoenix Family Medical Clinic is able to treat mild heat-related illnesses, and we accept walk-in visitors and patients without insurance. Contact us if you have questions.

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