FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Wes Stubblefield, M.D., (256) 340-2113
Karen Landers, M.D., (256) 383-1231
With extreme heat and high humidity forecast for this week, the Alabama Department of Public Health advises the public to be alert and recognize the warning signs of heat-related illnesses. These include heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Anyone exposed to high temperatures or extreme heat can experience symptoms when the body’s temperature control system is overloaded. The most common heat-related illnesses are as follows:
Heat cramps – include muscle pains or spasms (abdomen, arms or legs), profuse sweat, and high salt concentration in the sweat.
Heat exhaustion – is associated with heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, or vomiting and fainting. Other possible symptoms may include cool and moist skin, a fast and weak pulse rate, fast and shallow breathing, or irritability. Older adults, those with high blood pressure, and those working or exercising in a hot environment are prone to heat exhaustion. If heat exhaustion is not treated, it may progress to heatstroke.
Heat stroke or sun stroke – the most serious heat-related illness, a life-threatening problem, may occur when the body is unable to control its temperature. Body temperature may rise to 106 degrees F or higher within 10 -15 minutes. Signs include an extremely high body temperature, red, hot and dry or moist skin, rapid, strong pulse, throbbing headache, dizziness, nausea, dehydration, combativeness or confusion, and unconsciousness. Heat stroke is a medical emergency and even with immediate treatment, it can be life-threatening or cause serious long-term problems.
Recommendations are that people drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcohol or caffeinated beverages to prevent dehydration, stay in an air-conditioned room, keep out of the sun by seeking shelter, wear a wide-brimmed hat, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing, use sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher, take cool showers or baths, and reduce or eliminate strenuous activities during the hottest times of the day. NEVER leave people or pets in a parked vehicle.
Individuals with heart disease, diabetes, obesity, poor circulation, or a history of stroke, people of older and younger ages, and those taking certain medications are at high risk of becoming ill in hot weather.
For more information, visit Heat-related Illnesses.
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8/12/26
County health departments throughout Alabama provide a wide range of confidential and professional services. Contact your local county health department for additional information.
Mission: To promote, protect, and improve Alabama’s health
Vision: Healthy People. Healthy Communities. Healthy Alabama.