Summer brings longer days and plenty of sunshine, but with it comes the challenge of staying cool during soaring temperatures. The sweltering heat can lead to various heat-related illnesses, some of which can be serious if not addressed promptly. Kevin Crawford, a Risk Consultant at Atlas Insurance Agency, wants employers and employees to know the following common heat-related illnesses and tips for preventing them:

1. Heat Syncope – This is when someone suddenly faints due to being in a hot environment, especially after standing for a long time or getting up quickly from a sitting or lying down position. Heat syncope occurs as the body tries to cool itself down by widening blood vessels, which in turn, can cause blood pressure to drop. This can make it hard for enough blood to reach the brain, leading to fainting. Usually, lying down and elevating the legs can help individuals recover quickly. The most common symptoms are dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, blurry vision, rapid heart rate, and sweating. Those not used to the heat, older adults, people with heart conditions, and those taking medications that affect blood pressure have a higher risk of heat syncope. To prevent heat syncope, drink plenty of water, wear light loose-fitting clothes, and take regular breaks in cool or shaded areas. Additionally, avoid getting up too quickly from a sitting or lying position to keep your blood pressure steady. 
2. Heat Rash – This occurs when sweat ducts become blocked and trap sweat beneath the skin. Common in hot, humid environments, it often affects areas where skin folds or where clothing creates friction. Symptoms can include small, red bumps on the skin, itchy or prickly sensations, and slight swelling. Excessive sweating, tight clothing, and prolonged periods of physical activity can increase your risk of developing a heat rash. You can avoid it by wearing loose-fitting clothes with breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen. Also, refrain from using thick lotions or creams that may clog pores and use fragrance-free soaps that won’t dry or irritate your skin. 
3. Heat Cramps – This can occur when you sweat excessively due to heat or physical activity, possibly resulting in an imbalance in electrolytes which can lead to muscle cramps or spasms. Although heat cramps are not typically serious, they are a sign the body is struggling to cope with the heat and that further measures should be taken to prevent more severe heat illnesses from occurring. Tight muscles with mild to severe pain, flushed or moist skin are some of the usual warning signs. Heat cramps are common for those who work outdoors. Even if the majority of your work is indoors, your risk of developing heat cramps increases if you have preexisting conditions, are on a low-sodium diet, or are taking certain medications (e.g., blood pressure pills, diuretics or antidepressants). 
   If you start feeling heat cramp symptoms, immediately stop any activity and get out of the       heat if possible. Stretch and massage the cramping muscle and apply a cold compress. You can also drink milk, coconut water, sports drinks or an oral rehydration solution to replenish your body’s lost electrolytes. 
4. Heat Exhaustion – This is a serious condition that occurs when the body loses an excessive amount of water and salt through sweating. Without intervention, heat exhaustion can escalate to heatstroke. The indicators of heat exhaustion can appear suddenly without warning or develop gradually over time. Heat exhaustion symptoms are pale, moist skin, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache, muscle cramps, and high fever. You are more likely to experience heat exhaustion if you engage in strenuous physical activity in hot, humid environments. People not acclimated to high temperatures (such as those living in cooler climates who suddenly encounter hot weather) are also at higher risk. In general, the elderly, young children, and individuals with chronic health conditions like heart disease or diabetes are the most susceptible to heat exhaustion. If someone is experiencing heat exhaustion, move them to a cool place and remove unnecessary clothing like jackets or socks. Offer them cool water to replenish fluids, then use a spray bottle or damp cloth to apply cool water to their skin. Fanning them and placing cold packs on their neck can also help.
5. Heatstroke –Heatstroke happens when the body’s temperature regulation fails, and body temperature rises to 104 F or higher. You may experience a sense of disorientation, loss of consciousness, hot and dry skin, or a rapid pulse. Heatstroke requires immediate medical attention to prevent permanent damage or death. If you see someone possibly suffering from heatstroke, call 911. Until help arrives, remove excess clothing and drench the skin with cool water. Place ice on the neck, armpits, and groin to help cool the body down. If the person is alert, give them cool fluids to drink.

Summer heat can be more than physically uncomfortable; it can threaten your health. Even as summer winds down, appropriately planning hot and humid days with these common heat-related illnesses in mind can minimize potential life-threatening symptoms and allow you to enjoy the rest of your summer!

Kevin Crawford has over ten years of experience in the insurance industry and works with construction, municipal, and large fleet clients. For more information, contact Kevin at kcrawford@atlasinsurance.com.