Heat-related illnesses and deaths are largely preventable. Yet in times of high heat — and especially during heat waves — heat exhaustion and heat stroke remain among the most deadly dangers for people of all ages, and can even affect otherwise healthy athletes. With the U.S., the U.K., Europe and other regions currently setting temperature records, it's important to remember the basics of heat illness and help our patients reduce their risks.  

Here is a reminder of heat illness risk factors and symptoms: 

• Environmental risk factors
  Is your patient in an environment where their body temperature could exceed 104 degrees Fahrenheit due to exertion or environmental exposure? Non-exertional heat stroke can creep up slowly over the course of days, whereas exertional heat stroke can manifest within an hour.

• Lifestyle considerations
  Is your patient an intrepid athlete? Do they push themselves physically? Are they overweight and excited about a new exercise regimen to lose weight? Are they about to embark on a physical outing that is outside of their normal routine? Counsel them on limiting heat exposure in high-temperature settings — indoors and outside — and teach them the early physical signs of heat exhaustion. Remind overweight patients that their bodies shed heat less efficiently and are at higher risk of overheating.

• Physical manifestation
  Symptoms of heat exhaustion may include nausea, headache, fatigue and/or weakness, irritability, dizziness, confusion, thirst or signs of dehydration such as a darkening of the urine. 

Even mild to moderate exertion in high temperature settings can lead to heat illness. Heat acclimatization, hydration, early recognition and cooling techniques are vital to preventing heat illness. During these summer months, remind your patients to be careful when it is hot: proactively hydrate, wear sun protection (hats, clothing, sunscreen), have a plan to locate shade, be mindful of exertion in hot weather and watch out for the initial signs of heat illness.