Beat the Heat and Stay Healthy

7/24/2025

The summer heat is on, and many experts predict that 2025 could surpass 2024 as the hottest year on record in the United States. According to Matthew Wiggins, M.D., emergency department physician at Merit Health Wesley, warmer temperatures often bring more patients to the ER with symptoms of heat-related illnesses.

“An increase in outdoor activity is one of the reasons we all enjoy the summer months, but heat waves can create dangerous conditions for anyone spending a prolonged amount of time outside,” said Wiggins. “Heat stroke occurs when the body can no longer control its temperature and is one of the most serious heat-related illnesses we treat in the ER. Emergency treatment is necessary to prevent damage to the brain, heart, kidneys and muscles.”

Symptoms of heat stroke include confusion, altered mental status, slurred speech, seizures, loss of consciousness and high body temperature. It is important to call 911 if heat stroke is expected and take steps to cool the individual while waiting for emergency help.

Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness and is caused by the combination of dehydration and high temperatures. Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, thirst, sweating and an elevated body temperature. Those suspected of having heat exhaustion should also seek medical attention.

“Heat-related illnesses can affect anyone, but children and adults with underlying health conditions, pregnant women and outdoor workers are especially susceptible,” said Wiggins. “It’s a good practice to check on these individuals during periods of extreme heat and make sure they stay hydrated, take breaks and cool off when spending time outside.”

Most people can avoid heat-related illnesses by taking a few precautions:

• If working or exercising outside, try to do so in the early morning or evening hours when temperatures are cooler.
• If you must be outside for long periods of time, take frequent breaks in the shade or in air-conditioned spaces.
• Stay hydrated by always having a water bottle on hand and limiting drinks with high levels of sugar, caffeine or alcohol.
• Stay informed with the National Weather Service HeatRisk index, and Air Quality Index, tools that indicate when heat or air quality may pose a health threat.

According to the National Institutes of Health, ED visits for heat-related emergency conditions increase by roughly 70% during periods of extreme heat. These periods are marked by temperatures and humidity that are significantly hotter and/or more humid than the average for a particular location at that time of year.

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