Heat stress is often a life-threatening disorder. In high temperatures, the body can become overstressed by the heat and body temperature can rise rapidly. Symptoms of heat stress include heavy sweating, weakness, head pain, nausea, pale skin, exhaustion, fast pulse and loss of consciousness according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. MedlinePlus says risk of heat stress is increased in children, the elderly, and the obese.
Prescription Drugs
Some prescription drugs can impede the body’s ability to sweat, which will raise the risk for heat stress, notes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This problem is most common in elderly people. Regularly ask the doctor how any prescription medication can raise risk for heat stress.
Dark Clothing
Wearing dark, heavy clothing outside in high temperatures increases the risk of heat stress, notes the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Also, heavy athletic uniforms or military and police uniforms that are heavy and cover much of the body will also increase risk for heat disorders.
Dehydration
Dehydration will increase the risk of heat stress. Failure to consume enough water or other nonalcoholic drinks during high temperature days will make the body start to overheat, notes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Drink water frequently on high temperature days to ensure the body stays hydrated.
Exercise
Excessive exercise outdoors on hot days during peak sunlight hours will contribute to the development of heat stress. If temperatures are high, athletes and anyone exercising or doing other outdoor activities such as gardening must watch closely for signs of heat stress and go inside and seek medical care if symptoms of heat stress start to occur, notes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Fever
Having a fever will add to the risk of experiencing heat stress. Avoid exercise when ill. Also, stay inside during peak sunlight hours during high temperature days when an illness has caused a fever.
Diuretics & Stimulants
Taking diuretics to remove fluids from the body or stimulants will increase the chance of experiencing heat illness, notes the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. If a diuretic is taken regularly, speak to a doctor about how to maintain proper fluid levels in the body when outdoor temperatures are high.
Weather Variables
High humidity levels and lack of a breeze will increase risk of heat stress, notes the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. The humidity makes it harder for the body to sweat and release heat. Thus, the body temperature will rise.
