Ask A Magnet Nurse

Keeping Your Cool With Heat-Related Illnesses

Paddy Griffin, RN
Emergency Department, Candler Hospital

Smart Living: Heat exhaustion can be a concern for people of all ages in this region. Does heat exhaustion require a trip to the Emergency Department?

Paddy Griffin: I think people are better at recognizing signs of heat exhaustion with today’s knowledge. The most common symptoms include heavy sweating, fast and weak pulse, muscle cramps, and extreme thirst. You also have to watch out for headache, dizziness, fainting, nausea and vomiting.

If you notice these, immediately move the person to a cool or air-conditioned space, remove unnecessary or heavy clothing, have them water and replace electrolytes with drinks like Gatorade or Powerade, and have them lay down and elevate their legs and feet slightly. If you are able to do this, you may avoid a trip to the ED.

SL: Are there signs people can look for that indicate a life-threatening heat stroke?

PG: Yes, one major sign is that, after a period of heavy sweating, the person does not sweat at all and their symptoms do not improve. Other signs include a core body temperature of 103.0 or higher, confusion, slurred speech, seizures, or even loss of consciousness. If someone has these symptoms, call 911 or get them to a hospital immediately. The ED offers resources that aren't available at home, such as body-cooling procedures, various modes of rehydration depending on your lab work, and specialized monitoring and equipment. Don’t hesitate to seek our help with the extreme effects of summer heat.