Most Americans are being saturated with warnings to be careful in the heat right now. Over 1,000 hajj pilgrims to Mecca have died already. I was vacationing in Amsterdam last week where temperatures were 55-65° F. Friends who were vacationing in Cancun during the same week reported temperatures of 115°! The body cannot cool itself with sweating above this temperature. The planet is not distributing its heat well either anymore, and that is a nightmare story for another day. But for today, I felt compelled to drop a quick post as I was hit with a gross, palpable wall of humid heat as it buffeted me upon opening my front door, like a febrile Earth blowing in my face.
Be careful out there.
Heat can be deadly, affecting the human body in several ways.
The body's core temperature is normally about 98.6°F, and heat stroke can occur just 7°F higher. Heat kills through three main mechanisms:
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Heat stroke: As body temperature rises, blood flow is redirected to the skin for cooling, depriving organs of blood and oxygen. This can lead to organ failure and death.
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Heart strain: Increased blood flow to the skin causes blood pressure to drop. The heart works harder to compensate, which can be dangerous for those with cardiovascular conditions.
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Dehydration: Excessive sweating can lead to severe dehydration, stressing the kidneys and potentially causing organ shutdown.
Heat also affects cognitive function, causing confusion and impaired thinking. Humidity exacerbates heat's effects by hindering sweat evaporation, making humid heat waves more dangerous than dry ones.
Recent research suggests that the danger point for heat stress is lower than previously thought, especially for older individuals. When treating heat stroke, rapid cooling is crucial, with cold water immersion being the most effective method.
Climate change is worsening heat waves globally, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses and deaths. Heat is often referred to as a "silent killer" due to its insidious nature and hidden effects on the body.
Reminders on how to avoid heat stroke and other health problems during heat waves
Stay cool indoors:
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Use air conditioning if possible
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Close blinds/curtains during the day
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Use fans to circulate air
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Take cool showers or baths
Limit outdoor activities:
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Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest parts of the day
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If you must be outside, seek shade and take frequent breaks
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Wear light, loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat
Stay hydrated:
Know the signs of heat-related illness:
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Heat exhaustion: heavy sweating, dizziness, headache, nausea
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Heat stroke: high body temperature, confusion, loss of consciousness
Check on vulnerable people:
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Elderly, young children, and those with chronic illnesses are at higher risk
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Ensure they have access to cool environments and stay hydrated
Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles. Use buddy system when working in extreme heat. Seek medical attention immediately if you suspect heat stroke. Be aware of your local weather forecasts and heat advisories. Consider going to public cooling centers if you don't have air conditioning. Acclimate gradually to hot weather, especially when beginning outdoor work/exercise.
These precautions can significantly reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses and fatalities during extreme heat events. It's really important to take heat waves seriously and prioritize safety for yourself and others.
Good luck out there, and may the cooling force be with you. How is it where you are... and how are you coping if it’s sweltering?
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I write Examined, a substack about vital and overlooked ideas in medicine, available free via subscription.