How dangerous is hot weather?
by Dr. Joseph Hobbs
When summer heat pushes into the 90s, it’s time to protect yourself and your loved ones. But how smart are you about the heat? Take the following quiz to test your heat IQ.
1) Those at greatest risk for heat illness include
a) Young children, the elderly, the obese and the sick
b) All ages and conditions
c) Young children and the elderly
While anyone can be at risk for heat illness, those in category “a” are at greatest risk.
2) It is dangerously hot when
a) The heat index reaches 85 degrees
b) The heat index reaches 90 degrees
c) The heat index reaches 100 degrees
The correct answer is “b.” The heat index indicates how hot it feels based on temperature and humidity. Humidity can make a temperature in the mid-80s feel like the 90s. If heat overcomes the body’s ability to regulate its internal temperature, the situation can become dangerous.
3) You can help prevent heat illness by
a) Staying in a cool, air-conditioned place and staying hydrated
b) Wearing lightweight clothing, a hat and sunscreen
c) All of the above
The correct answer is “c.” Cooling centers and other public places offer relief for those without air conditioning. An electric fan can’t keep you cool and safe if the heat index is 100 or more.
4) What should you drink to cool off?
a) Water, diluted fruit juice and sports drinks
b) Any type of cool liquid
c) Milk, soda or iced tea
The correct answer is “a.” Alcohol, sodas and other caffeinated drinks, popular choices particularly at outdoor events, actually make you lose water faster.
5) The first sign of dehydration is
a) Flushed face and excessive sweating
b) Thirst
c) Headache and dizziness
“B” is the correct answer. Drink plenty of fluid before, during and after activity, and throughout the day.
Heat illness happens in stages. Inadequate fluid intake and persistent thirst can progress to headache and flushed skin, followed by dizziness, weakness, rapid heartbeat, lack of sweating, loss of consciousness and, potentially, even death.
If you notice early signs of dehydration, stop the activity, go to a cool place and drink cool liquids. By acting early, you can help protect yourself and others from the dangers of hot weather.
– Dr. Hobbs is a family medicine physician with MCG Health System