Summer's here, and with it comes sunshine, beach days, and barbecues! But with all the fun, we must also be mindful of the heat stroke. This severe medical condition arises when your body loses its ability to regulate temperature and may damage organs. Don't let the heat steal your summer joy. By understanding heat stroke and taking some simple precautions, you can stay safe and relaxed all season long.
Heat stroke is the most severe form of heat illness. It occurs when your body overheats, usually due to extended exposure to high temperatures or intense activity. Heat stroke requires urgent medical intervention, unlike heat exhaustion, which can typically be addressed with rest and fluids.
The critical difference lies in their severity- while heat exhaustion and heat cramps serve as warnings with symptoms like heavy sweating and muscle cramps, heat stroke constitutes a critical emergency.
Summer heat can be hazardous for older adults. During hot weather, be on the lookout for these heat stroke symptoms in seniors:
This can manifest as disorientation, unusual behavior, or difficulty speaking clearly.
In extreme instances, the person may become unconscious or faint.
Pay attention to changes in skin texture. Dry, hot skin can indicate a lack of sweating, a sign of heat stroke. However, profuse sweating doesn't always rule out heat stroke.
In some cases, heat stroke can trigger seizures, particularly among seniors who may already have an underlying health condition.
A body temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher is a red flag for heat stroke.
These simple tips can help you significantly prevent heat-related illness:
Water is your best friend! Stay hydrated by drinking fluids regularly, even if you're not thirsty. Aim for cool water or electrolyte-rich drinks, especially during hot weather and physical activity. Avoid sugary drinks and excessive alcohol, as they can dehydrate you further.
Limit your time outdoors during the hottest part of the day (usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.). Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton when you are outside. Look for shade whenever possible, and wear a wide-brimmed hat to shield your head and face.
While swimming can be a great way to cool down, be mindful of spending too long in the sun – even in the water. Social distancing shouldn't prevent you from looking out for others. Keep an eye on those around you, especially children and older people, for signs of heat stress.
If you experience dizziness, headache, nausea, or muscle cramps, these could be early signs of heat exhaustion. Take a break in a cool, shaded area, drink plenty of fluids, and rest. If symptoms worsen, seek medical attention immediately.
Plan vigorous activities for cooler parts of the day, like early mornings or evenings. Pace yourself and take breaks often, especially in hot and humid weather. If you're exercising outdoors alone, let someone know where you'll be and when you expect to return.
Some medications can impact your body's ability to regulate temperature. If you take medications regularly, discuss any potential interactions with heat sensitivity with your doctor.
Stay cool this summer with Family Care Centers Medical Group Inc. Heat stroke is a critical condition requiring proactive prevention measures, especially during summertime temperatures soar. By following the tips for heat stroke prevention, you can ensure your safety and of your loved ones from extreme heat. Remember to stay calm and informed to enjoy a safe and healthy summer. We are here to help with urgent medical care.
Contact us today to ensure a safe and fun-filled summer.
Dr. Bunten is originally from Huntington Beach, CA. He attended high school in Tokyo, Japan, went to college at UC San Diego and then to medical school in the Midwest. He returned home to California for residency training in Family Medicine at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center. His immediate family all reside in Huntington Beach.
Dr Fishbein has been in the practice of family medicine for over 35 years in Irvine. He received his undergraduate degree from Southern Illinois University, medical degree from Chicago Medical School, and completed his family medicine residency at Memorial Hospital of Long Beach.
Dr. Kim is the Medical Director of Family Care Centers, Chair of the Department of Family Medicine at Hoag Hospital, and a recipient of the Physicians of Excellence award from the Orange County Medical Association. He is Board Certified in Family Medicine, and has been practicing in our community for over 20 years.
Dr. Memon is a board certified Family Medicine physician and recently completed her fellowship in Geriatrics at the University of California, Irvine Medical Center. She attended Saint George’s University, School of Medicine and completed her residency at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center. Her interest in medicine started at an early age and has since evolved into a passionate career.
Dr. Gina Nguyen obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at UC Irvine where she graduated Suma Cum Laude. She went to USC Keck School of Medicine, and returned to UC Irvine for a Family Medicine Residency. Since 2005, she worked at Kaiser Permanente, VNCOC, and Family Care Center Urgent Care.
Dr. Williams is Board Certified in Family Medicine and Sports Medicine. He is a native to Orange County and returned home after completing his medical degree at the University of New Mexico, Albuquerque. After completing his residency in family practice he successfully completed a fellowship in sports medicine.
Dr. Hye Lee is a board-certified Family Practice Physician, affiliated with the American Osteopathic Association and the American College of Osteopathic Family Practice.She obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at UC Riverside and earned her medical degree from Des Moines University Osteopathic Medical Center. Afterward, she did her internship at Downey Regional Medical Center in California and has been a primary care physician since 2005.
Dr. Coyne is a board certified family practice physician and a California native. He completed his undergraduate degree at UCLA before earning his medical degree at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. Dr Coyne spent 6 years in the US Air Force at Andrews and Luke Air Force bases, eventually separating as a Major. He enjoys working with patients of all ages.”
Dr. Jay Friehling is a Family Practice physician who has worked in Orange County since 1981. Born in Florida, he received his undergraduate degree from Cornell University and then earned a Medical Degree at the New York Medical College.” His healthcare interests include Diabetes, Geriatric Care, and Hospice Care.
Dr. Jennifer Shoquist is board certified in Family Medicine. Her special interest is woman’s health and her practice accepts patients from 6 years old to seniors. Dr. Shoquist received her M.D. degree at The University of Texas Medical School at Houston in Houston, Texas, and did her residency with Memorial Family Practice at memorial Southwest Hospital in Houston, Texas.
Dr. Tom is a board certified family medicine physician and native Californian. He received his bachelors of science with great distinction in biochemistry and honors in chemistry. Dr. Tom was awarded a Regents Scholarship to attend medical school at UC Irvine.
Dr. Yan attended Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her Family Practice residency at Kern Medical Center in Bakersfield, California. She joined Family Care Center in 2001. She chose Family Practice because she enjoys working with a wide variety of people and because it provides a unique opportunity for continuing care.
