Luminis Health Encourages Marylanders to Prepare for This Week’s Dangerous Heat Wave

Annapolis, Md. — Extreme Heat may be the unwanted guest at July 4th celebrations. With triple-digit temperatures expected across Maryland this week, Luminis Health is urging residents to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day and take other precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses. Luminis Health’s emergency departments are preparing for an increase in patients experiencing heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and other heat-related emergencies. Children, older adults, and people with chronic medical conditions are among those at greatest risk.

“I strongly urge everyone to take this heat wave seriously and take precautions now,” said Dr. Louis Piper, emergency department physician at Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center in Lanham. “With the July 4th holiday, many people will be spending extended time outdoors celebrating with family and friends. It’s easy to underestimate how quickly extreme heat can become dangerous. Heat-related illnesses can be life-threatening if they are not recognized and treated immediately.” 

Heat exhaustion is the most common heat-related illness. It happens when the body loses too much water and salt through excessive sweating. Symptoms can include an elevated body temperature, excessive sweating, and cool, pale, clammy skin. If someone develops these symptoms, move them to a shaded or air-conditioned area, remove excess clothing, encourage them to slowly sip water or a drink containing electrolytes, and apply cool, wet cloths to the skin.

Without prompt treatment, heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, a life-threatening medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. Signs of heat stroke can include:

• Hot, dry skin
• Little or no sweating
• Confusion or disorientation
• Seizures
• Severe headache
• Rapid breathing and heart rate
• Fainting or loss of consciousness
• Fatigue or weakness
• Body temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher

If you suspect heat stroke, call 911 immediately. While waiting for emergency responders, move the person to a cool, shaded area and remove excess clothing. Cool the body by applying cool water to the skin, placing cool, wet cloths on the body, or using ice packs on the neck, armpits, and groin.

Children are especially vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. “Children and teenagers generate more body heat and do not cool themselves as efficiently as adults, making it more difficult for them to adapt to high temperatures,” said Dr. Lauren Fitzpatrick, medical director of the pediatrics emergency department at Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis. “Parents should learn the signs of heat-related illnesses and talk with their children about them, because young people may ignore symptoms in order to keep playing or participating in activities.”  

Older adults are also at increased risk for heat-related illnesses because the body's ability to regulate temperature decreases with age. Certain chronic medical conditions and medications can further increase the risk of dehydration and heat exhaustion. Older adults may not feel thirsty as quickly or recognize the early signs of overheating, making it especially important to check in on older family members, friends and neighbors during periods of extreme heat.

For non-emergency medical concerns, Luminis Health encourages Marylanders to consider using Care Connect Now, its virtual urgent care service. Patients can quickly connect with a Luminis Health medical provider from anywhere in Maryland using a smartphone, tablet, or computer.

“It’s important to take precautions before an emergency happens,” said Dr. Louis Piper. “Drink water before you feel thirsty, wear lightweight, light-colored clothing, and take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning. If you’re spending time outdoors, check on children, older adults, and anyone with chronic medical conditions. A few simple precautions can help make your July 4th celebrations safe and enjoyable for everyone.”