As the heat and humidity rises, so does the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Dangerous temperatures and heat indices are becoming more and more prevalent in the summer months. Prolonged exposure to such extreme temperatures can be a real health threat, especially for older people and young children.

How can you avoid heat-related illnesses?

• Wear light-weight, light colored clothing made of breathable material, like cotton
• Cover up when you can with long-sleeved shirts and pants
• Hats are fine, but remember baseball caps won’t protect your ears and neck from the sun
• Always use a broad spectrum sunscreen with a minimum of 30 SPF, even when it is cloudy. Reapply at least every two hours
• Avoid uninterrupted sun exposure between 10am and 4pm whenever possible
• Stay hydrated. Drink water throughout the day
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activity on hot days
• If you must be outside, take frequent breaks in a cool place
• Air-conditioning is the best way to protect against heat-related illness. If you do not have air-conditioning at home during extreme heat. Try to spend time in air-conditioned locations such as a shopping mall, public library, or public health sponsored heat-relief shelter in your area

Excessive heat can cause several health problems including heat exhaustion. Symptoms include:

• Profuse sweating
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Rapid heartbeat
• Skin that feels cool and moist
• Muscle cramps

Move this person to a cooler location, apply cool wet cloths to their body, and give them cool water to drink. If the person vomits or refuses to drink, call 9-1-1. Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke.

All Patient First Medical Centers are open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day of the year, including holidays. Patient First provides non-appointment urgent care for routine injuries and illnesses, primary care for patients who do not have a regular physician, as well as telehealth services. Each Patient First center has on-site digital x-ray, on-site laboratory, and on-site prescription drugs. Patient First currently operates medical centers in Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.