Most people think heat stroke happens to other people – someone who pushed too hard at a summer 5K or an elderly neighbor without air conditioning. The truth is that heat stroke doesn’t discriminate, and it doesn’t always announce itself clearly before it becomes a crisis. Understand how to prevent heat stroke so you can enjoy warm weather safely.
Some groups of people are at a higher risk from heat stroke. These include children, pregnant people, older adults, people with heart conditions and those exercising in the heat.
The good news: heat-related illness is largely preventable. Even people at higher risk can protect themselves with the right information and some advance planning.
If you suspect a heat emergency like heat stroke, call 911. Getting care at your nearest emergency department as soon as possible can help you avoid the worst outcomes.
Why your body struggles in extreme heat
Under normal conditions, your body is remarkably good at keeping its core temperature stable. When you get too warm, your heart pumps more blood to the skin, where it can release heat. You sweat, and as that sweat evaporates, you cool down.
But when the environment is too hot and humid, those cooling mechanisms can get overwhelmed. If the body can’t release heat fast enough, body temperature rises rapidly. Add dehydration to the mix, and the risk multiplies.
Who is most at risk for heat stroke?
Some groups of people are at an increased risk of experiencing heat exhaustion and heat stroke. However, while the
Older adults
Heat stroke in elderly adults is among the most serious outcomes of extreme heat. As we age, our cardiovascular systems become less efficient. The body has to work harder to pump blood to the skin for cooling.
Older adults may not feel as thirsty when dehydrated. And chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes and kidney disease can impair the body’s ability to handle heat stress. Certain medications can also interfere with the body’s ability to manage heat.
Children
Heat stroke in children can occur because their bodies have a higher metabolic rate and are less efficient at sweating compared to adults. They also rely on adults to make sure they drink enough water and take breaks, which makes them dependent on others for their safety.
Children aged 2 to 4 are considered among the most vulnerable to heat-related injury. Young children left in hot cars represent one of the most preventable tragedies related to heat stroke. Vehicle interiors can become dangerous within minutes, even on relatively mild days.
Older children are often treated for heat-related illness due to exercise. Kids who are playing sports or are just starting a new outdoor activity are at a higher risk.
Outdoor workers and athletes
If you are working outside in extreme heat, safety is crucial. Workers in outdoor environments – and athletes in outdoor training – are at high risk for exertional heat stroke. This is triggered by intense physical activity in the heat. Unlike classic heat stroke, exertional heat stroke can strike healthy, fit people fast.
Risk increases with limited acclimatization. It takes most people a couple of weeks of gradual exposure for their body to adapt to working or exercising in the heat. Starting an intense outdoor job or training regimen in peak summer without that adjustment period significantly raises the danger.
How medications increase heat stroke risk
A range of common medications can make it much harder for the body to handle heat. Many people don’t know their prescriptions put them at risk.
Medications that can impair the body’s heat response include:
- Diuretics (“water pills”): These increase urination, which accelerates fluid loss and raising dehydration risk
- Beta blockers: Slow the heart rate, making it harder for the body to respond to rising temperature
- Antihistamines and anticholinergics: Can block sweating, one of the body’s primary ways to cool itself
- Antidepressants and antipsychotics: Can interfere with temperature regulation and reduce the sensation of thirst
- Sedatives and tranquilizers: May blunt awareness of heat stress symptoms
The danger increases when someone is taking more than one of these medications at the same time. If you or someone you care for takes any of these medications, talk to your provider or a pharmacist about what extra precautions you should take.
How to prevent heat stroke
These guidelines apply broadly but are especially important for the high-risk groups described above.
- Stay hydrated: Thirst is a late signal, especially for older adults and children. Drink water consistently throughout the day, don’t wait until you feel dehydrated. Water is best. Avoid alcohol and limit caffeine during hot weather, as both can increase fluid loss.
- Plan around the heat: The hottest part of the day is typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If possible, schedule outdoor activities for early morning or evening. Take regular breaks in the shade or somewhere air-conditioned, such as a cooling center.
- Dress for the heat: Lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing helps the body release heat. A wide-brimmed hat reduces sun exposure.
- Get used to the heat: Gradual acclimatization over one to two weeks is one of the most effective ways to reduce heat stroke risk for athletes and outdoor workers. Start with shorter, less intense sessions and build up.
- Use a buddy system: This is especially important for outdoor workers and athletes. Heat stroke can cause confusion before the affected person is even aware something is wrong. Having someone else watching for warning signs is a critical safety net.
- Understand medication risks: If you take any medications listed above, ask your doctor whether your summer routine or dosing needs any adjustment.
- Never leave a child or pet unattended in a car: It doesn’t matter if the windows are cracked, you’re not parked in the sun or you’ll be gone for just a few minutes. Car temperatures rise dangerously fast.
Symptoms of overheating in children and older adults
Because these groups may not recognize or communicate that they’re in distress, caregivers need to know what to look for.
In children:
- Flushed, hot skin
- Rapid or labored breathing
- Stopping activity without explanation
- Becoming unusually irritable, lethargic or difficult to wake
- Stopping sweating during activity in the heat
In older adults:
- Confusion or sudden changes in behavior
- Dizziness or weakness
- Stopping sweating in hot conditions
- Reluctance or inability to drink fluids
- Skin that’s hot to the touch
If any of these signs appear, move the person to a cool area immediately and offer fluids if they’re conscious and alert.
Call 911 to go to the emergency department if symptoms don’t improve quickly, if they have signs of confusion or if they lose consciousness.
How we can help
Staying cool on hot days is more than a matter of being comfortable. Heat stroke is a serious condition that can be fatal if it’s not treated right away. One of the most important steps in how to prevent heat stroke is being able to recognize the signs and calling 911 to get help quickly at the nearest emergency department.
Learn about the emergency care services we offer at Bon Secours.
