Heat waves
The National Weather Service developed the heat index to help people identify days when the risk for a heat illness is higher than normal. During a heat wave, the heat index is excessive for many days in a row. Everyone has an increased risk for a heat-related illness during a summer heat wave.
People who have an increased risk of developing heat-related illness during a heat wave include:
- Older adults, who may not notice excessive heat, do not sweat as effectively, or do not feel thirsty.
- Small children, who can't transfer heat very well.
- People with chronic medical conditions.
- People taking medications, such as heart medications or tranquilizers, for serious psychiatric disorders or depression.
- People with weight problems.
- People with alcohol or drug use problems.
- People with mental health or developmental problems.
Other factors that affect a person's risk for a heat-related illness during a heat wave include:
- Living in cities, because heat is trapped by tall buildings and air pollutants.
- Living alone.
- Not having cooling devices, such as fans or air-conditioning.
| Author: | Jan Nissl, RN, BS | Last Updated: December 12, 2006 |
| Medical Review: | Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine | |
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