Heat Wave Turning Deadly

Heat-related illness has sent nearly 1,000 people to the hospital during July and has claimed six lives so far this season, according to reports from the state Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.

According to daily surveillance maintained by state health officials, heat-related illness is responsible for 941 hospital emergency department visits since the beginning of July.

Six people have died from excessive heat this year, most recently a middle-aged Baltimore man who passed away on July 11, according to health department reports.

The victims of heat-related illness are often elderly and have underlying medical conditions.

Health officials say there were 32 heat-related deaths last year, six deaths in 2009, 17 deaths in 2008 and 21 deaths in 2007.

Experts remind the public that extremely hot weather can be deadly. Exposure to hot and humid conditions can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Heat exhaustion usually develops over a period of days of exposure to heat and dehydration. Signs include extreme weakness, muscle cramps, nausea and vomiting, headaches and fainting. Treatment of heat exhaustion includes moving the victim to a cool, shaded environment and plenty of fluids to counter dehydration.

Heat stroke is a serious illness that develops when the body loses the ability to cool off through sweating, and the core temperature begins to rise. Heat stroke is characterized by a body temperature of 105 degrees or greater, and can have a very rapid onset. Signs of heat stroke include dry, red skin; disorientation or confusion; delirium, convulsions and coma.

The treatment of heat stroke involves rapidly lowering the body temperature with a cool bath or wet towels. Heat stroke is a true emergency. In case of heat stroke, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Other hot weather tips from the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene:

• Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
• Alcohol can impair the body’s sweating ability, as can certain drugs such as antihistamines and diuretics.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothing.
• Avoid direct sunlight, either by staying in the shade or by wearing a hat, sunscreen and sun glasses.
• Stay in air-conditioned areas when possible. If your home isn’t air conditioned, visit a shopping mall, public library or senior center.
• Never leave pets or children in a car, even with the windows cracked.
• Check on elderly relatives or neighbors at least daily.
• Take it easy outdoors. Schedule physical activity for the morning or evening when it is cooler.