As Florida faces elevated-to-significant threats of excessive heat, local hospitals are preparing for an increase in patients suffering from heat-related illnesses.
- Dr. Erik Petersen, a board-certified emergency medicine physician at HCA Florida Twin Cities Hospital in Niceville, warns that high humidity combined with rising air temperatures can create dangerously hot conditions.
“We tend to set aside the dangers of heat when we don’t hear about extreme or record-breaking temperatures, but with high humidity, the heat index can sneak up on people and have just as big an impact,” Petersen said.
The heat index, or “feels-like” temperature, is a combination of humidity and air temperature. According to Petersen, certain groups are particularly vulnerable to high heat index levels, including the elderly, young children, those with chronic illnesses or pre-existing conditions, outdoor workers, and pregnant women.
- “Older adults retain more heat and their cardiovascular systems often have a harder time compensating, while children tend to take longer to sweat and acclimate to an elevated heat index,” Petersen explained.
To stay safe in the heat, Petersen advises wearing lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing. He also recommends staying in air-conditioned spaces during the hottest parts of the day, taking frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas when outside, and applying sunscreen to prevent sunburn, which can affect the body’s ability to cool itself.
Medical professionals urge prompt action for symptoms of heat exhaustion, such as heavy sweating, weakness, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, or muscle cramps. HCA Florida Twin Cities Hospital recommends moving affected individuals to cooler locations, preferably air-conditioned spaces, drinking water, and taking cool baths to reduce body temperature.
- If symptoms worsen or don’t improve quickly, seeking immediate medical attention is advised.
