Heat illness occurs when the human body is exposed to extremely high temperatures and is unable to cool itself down. Every year, thousands of Americans are at risk, with the most vulnerable populations including the elderly, immigrants, low-income families, pregnant people, and children. Over the past years, as climate change has caused global temperatures to increase, extreme heat waves have been triggering health emergencies across the country. During hot weather the body typically cools itself through a mix of sweating and evaporation. It also constricts and dilates different veins in order to move blood and transport heat from the core to other parts of the body. Drinking water and taking rest are recommended during hot weather as they aid the body in this process of cooling down. However, during extreme heat events, if proper precautions aren't taken, it can be easy for the human body to overheat and therefore it wouldn't be able to cool itself down as it usually does.
Heat illness and extreme heat waves have become more commonplace in the last few years, and have now become not only the deadliest type of weather disaster in the US but also the most underestimated. In 2021, a heat dome reported in Portland, Oregon, caused the city to reach a record high of 116°F and led to the deaths of hundreds of citizens across the region. The majority of those who passed were elderly and lived alone. Due to increasing global temperatures, many researchers believe that unless greenhouse gases are substantially reduced now, by 2100, the Pacific Northwest, which is mainly comprised of Washington, Oregon, the very north of California, and British Columbia, will have average annual temperatures that are seven degrees higher than they are currently. Rather than work toward reducing greenhouse gases and getting ahead of climate change, federal cuts towards important agencies such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has made it so many states are unable to provide assistance and resources to their citizens during these extreme weather disasters. It is up to citizens to ensure their safety and the safety of their neighbors during these heat waves.
The most important thing to prevent heat illness is to recognize the symptoms and the potential health risks it can lead to if left unchecked. Heat illness can be extremely common in urban heat islands, which are urban areas that are prone to extreme heat. While populations like the elderly, children, and pregnant people are vulnerable, heat illness does not discriminate. It can affect outdoor workers, those without proper air conditioning systems, and even commuters, which is why it is so important to be able to recognize symptoms as early as possible. The early signs of heat illness to look out for include headache, nausea, a rapid heartbeat, and confusion. If any of these symptoms are reported, immediately find a way to hydrate and rest in a shaded area or a room with air conditioning. If action isn't taken immediately, heat illness can go on to cause other health issues such as cardiac arrhythmias, impaired kidney function, and even heart attacks.
To ensure a lower chance of falling to heat illness be prepared with a plan. Make sure to stay hydrated and in areas with shade or air conditioning systems. If strenuous activities must be done, make sure to do them earlier during the day. Find local cooling centers such as schools, libraries, religious institutes, and even shaded parks. These areas can be used not only as a place to beat the heat but also to reconnect, reorganize, and rebuild communities in the wake of disastrous heat waves. During the day make sure to keep the blinds closed and use fans or cross-ventilation at night, to keep spaces cool and keep the heat out. Staying cool and hydrating allow the body to continue the process of cooling down and therefore lowering the risk of heat illness. However, during these extreme heat events its important to keep an eye out for those who might not be aware to the dangers of heat illness. The elderly are usually the most unaware, especially as they live alone, which unfortunately makes them a prime victim to heat illness and health-related deaths. Creating group chats and calling those who live alone to check-in with one another can help unintentionally save a life. Many cities and communities also implement "Adopt-A-Neighbor" systems, where citizens check in on particular neighbors who might be living alone during these weather events. Heatwaves are taking place all over the country, from the coast to the midwest. Knowing the signs of heat illness and having a proper plan in place can help prevent heat illness and even save a life.