American Heart Association Warns of Heat Stroke Risk

Recent heat waves mean summer is most definitely here. Whatever brings you outside — a bike ride with friends, a jog in the park or just a stroll around the block — it’s important to stay safe when the temperature rises. Infants, young children, heart patients, those older than 50 or people who are overweight are at higher risk for heat-related illnesses. Certain medications or illnesses can also raise the risk.

The American Heart Association offers these tips to stay safe in the summer heat.

Tips for heart patients

If you’re a heart patient, older than 50 or overweight, you might need to take special precautions in the heat, according to Gerald Fletcher, M.D., professor of medicine at the Mayo Clinic, in Jacksonville, Fla.

Check with your healthcare professional before starting an exercise routine if you are experiencing symptoms or have a specific medical question or chronic disease. Certain heart medications like beta blockers, ace receptor blockers, ace inhibitors, calcium channel blockers and diuretics (which deplete the body of sodium) can exaggerate the body’s response to heat, Fletcher said.

But Fletcher points out that it’s important to keep taking your medications —and taking them when you’re supposed to. Even if they’re not on medications, older people also need to take precautions in the heat.

“If you’re older than 50, you may not be aware that you’re thirsty,” Fletcher said. “If you’re going to be outside, it’s important to drink water even if you don’t think you need it.”

“Heat-related issues happen very quickly. With summer camps starting up, it’s important to keep children hydrated throughout the day, and when they return from camp in the evening,” said Carolyn Torella, AHA spokesperson, “And avoid activities during the hottest parts of the day. Think water balloons in the shade kind of games!”

Symptoms of heat exhaustion:
Headaches
Cool, moist skin
Dizziness and light-headedness
Weakness
Nausea and vomiting
Dark urine

If you experience these symptoms, move to a cooler place, stop exercising and cool down immediately by using cool wet cloths, compresses, and fanning. You may need to seek medical attention.

Symptoms of heat stroke
The symptoms of heatstroke include (call 911 or the local emergency number right away):
Fever (temperature above 104 °F)
Irrational behavior
Extreme confusion
Dry, hot, and red skin
Rapid, shallow breathing
Rapid, weak pulse
Seizures
Unconsciousness

If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention right away.

Summer Exercise Tips
For most people, exercise in summer heat can be done safely. Watch the clock and buddy up, Fletcher said. It’s best to avoid the outdoors in the early afternoon (about noon to 3 p.m.) because the sun is usually at its strongest, putting you at higher risk for heat-related illnesses.

Adapt your normal exercise routines when the temps are high. Walking inside air-conditioned buildings, go for a swim or try exercise videos at home to beat the heat.

And exercise with a friend, because it’s safer — and more fun — to have someone at your side. Here are some other tips:

Get off on the right foot. You probably sweat the most in your shoes, so choose well-ventilated shoes and look for socks that repel perspiration. Foot powders and antiperspirants can also help with sweat.

Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing in breathable fabrics such as cotton, or a synthetic fabric that repels sweat. Add a hat and/or sunglasses.

Drink up. Before you get started, apply a water-resistant sunscreen with at least SPF 15, and reapply it every two hours. Stay hydrated by drinking a few cups of water before, during and after your exercise. Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages.

Take regular breaks. Find some shade or a cool place, stop for a few minutes, hydrate and start again.

Learn more at www.heart.org.