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With rising summer temperatures, Baptist Health emphasizes the importance of preventive measures, especially for vulnerable populations, as advised by Dr. Amy Martin Higgins, MD, of Baptist Health Primary Care London.
Dr. Higgins emphasizes that older adults, young children, pregnant women, people taking specific medications, and the immunocompromised are particularly susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
“These groups face unique challenges in regulating body temperature,” she explained. “Heat exhaustion, marked by symptoms like thirst, overheating, fatigue, nausea, and muscle soreness, is a common issue we see in our emergency department.”
To stay safe during hot weather, Dr. Higgins recommends:
- Staying hydrated with water and electrolyte-containing fluids before and during sun exposure.
- Wearing loose, light-colored clothing.
- Applying sunscreen with at least 30 SPF 15 to 30 minutes before going outside and reapplying at least every two hours while outside
- Taking breaks from the heat and seeking shade when possible.
- Reacting promptly if feeling unwell by moving indoors to cool off.
While heat stroke is less common, Dr. Higgins stresses its severity noting “heat stroke can lead to serious complications such as mental status changes and acute kidney injury.”
If you or someone you know experiences heat-related symptoms, Dr. Higgins advises contacting your primary care physician, visiting an urgent care, or using Baptist Health’s video urgent care service at Baptist Health Video Urgent Care. If you are experiencing an emergency, call 911.
For more information on staying safe in hot weather, contact Baptist Health Primary Care at (606) 526-4970.
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