Kenny: Protect your heart this summer by knowing the warning signs of heat stroke

Are you ready to brave the great outdoors? As temperatures rise, it’s important to remember that hot weather can impact your heart.

In fact, temperatures exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit or even temperatures in the 80s with high humidity can cause a dangerous heat index that can negatively affect your health.

To stay safe, the American Heart Association recommends you follow these tips.

• Watch the clock and buddy up. Try to avoid the outdoors in the early afternoon (about noon to 3 p.m.). This is when the sun is usually at its strongest, which puts you at greater risk for heat-related illnesses. Exercising with a friend is safer and more fun as well!

• Get off on the right foot. Select well-ventilated shoes and look for socks that repel perspiration. Foot powders and antiperspirants can also help with sweat.

• Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing in breathable fabrics such as cotton, or a synthetic fabric that repels sweat. Add a hat and/or sunglasses. Before you get started, apply a water-resistant sunscreen with at least SPF 15, and reapply it every two hours.

• Drink up. Stay hydrated by drinking a few cups of water before, during and after your exercise. Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages.

• Take regular breaks. Find some shade or a cool place, stop for a few minutes, hydrate and start again.

In addition to taking precautions in advance, it’s imperative you know the signs and symptoms signaling you may be experiencing too much heat.

The symptoms of heat stroke include:

•  Fever (temperature above 104 degrees Fahrenheit)
•  Irrational behavior
•  Extreme confusion
•  Dry, hot, and red skin
•  Rapid, shallow breathing
•  Rapid, weak pulse
•  Seizures
•  Unconsciousness

If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention right away, call 911 or the local emergency number right away.

Editor’s Note: Dr. Katherine Kenny is a board certified adult nurse practitioner and current president of the Phoenix American Heart Association Board. She regularly works with the American Heart Association to help raise awareness of heart health through a variety of initiatives, including the annual Phoenix Heart Ball, which has raised more than $40 million in 64 years to support the American Heart Association’s lifesaving mission. For more information on the 2023 Phoenix Heart Ball, taking place on Saturday, Nov. 11, visit phoenixheartball.heart.org.