MAP Strategic Wealth Advisors

How Heat Waves and Record Breaking Temperatures Can Affect Your Health

Five takeaways:

1. June 2023 was the hottest month ever recorded, and heat waves continue to batter the country. To understand the health risks this poses, we must first understand what extreme heat is. Extreme heat is defined as a period of high heat and humidity with temps above 90 degrees for two to three days. /li>
2. The body responds to excess heat by releasing it through sweating and increased blood flow to the skin’s surface. Excessive sweating can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Extreme heat can also strain the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of strokes and heart attacks, and has been linked to various health issues such as pulmonary and kidney-related problems, as well as mental-health concerns. In severe cases, when the body cannot cool itself properly, it may lead to organ damage or failure and potential death.
3. Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke are two different things. Heat exhaustion symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, irritability, thirst, and decreased urine output and eventually vomiting. The symptoms of heat stroke may resemble and then surpass those of heat exhaustion. Patients might suffer from altered mental states or confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness. Without immediate attention, heat stroke can lead to death or permanent organ damage.
4. Everyone’s tolerance for heat is different. Infants, older adults, or people with pre-existing health conditions are at risk. Everyone is at risk when exposed for long periods; people who experience heat-related illnesses are at higher risk of chronic heart and kidney disease.
5. In a heat wave, listen to your body. Drink plenty of fluids, avoid alcoholic or caffeinated beverages, and limit outdoor activities.

From Dominique Mosbergen at The Wall Street Journal:

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Note: At the time of this posting The Wall Street Journal requires a subscription to read this article.