Taking the Heat off Your Heart
by Dr. Michael Shafe, Emergency Department Physician
MCG Health System

Augusta, Ga. -- Getting all hot and bothered isn't necessarily good for your heart.

During times of extreme heat, those with heart disease or who take diuretics and high blood pressure medicine are more susceptible to heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Heat exhaustion occurs when a person is overexposed to heat, resulting in loss of body water and salt. Symptoms include weakness, heavy sweating, nausea, giddiness, dizziness, collapse, fatigue and cool, clammy, red or flushed skin. Those suffering from heat exhaustion should immediately go inside. Rest, cool liquids to drink and cool baths are recommended.

If left untreated, heat exhaustion can become heat stroke, a life-threatening condition in which the body becomes dangerously overheated. Symptoms include: faintness, headache, loss of consciousness, body temperature at or above 104 degrees Fahrenheit, rapid pulse and symptoms of heat exhaustion. Victims of heat stroke should seek medical attention immediately.

Those at risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke need to protect themselves. Some tips include:

• Stay out of direct sunlight.
• Stay in air-conditioned areas.
• Take cool baths or showers.
• Place ice bags or wet towels on your body and sit or lie near a fan.
• Avoid strenuous activity.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing made of natural fibers.
• Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, vegetable juices and iced tea.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages or drinks with a high salt content.

MCG Health System is composed of MCG Health, Inc. and the clinical services offered by the faculty of the Medical College of Georgia and the members of the Physicians Practice Group. MCG Health, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation operating the MCG Hospitals and Clinics, Children's Medical Center, the Georgia Radiation Therapy Center and related clinical facilities and services. MCG Health, Inc. was formed to support the research and education mission of the Medical College of Georgia and to build the economic growth of the CSRA, the state of Georgia and the Southeast by offering the highest level of primary and specialty health care. For more information, please visit MCGHealth.org.