Florida Blue urges residents to take summer heat seriously as temperatures climb

In Summary:

As above-average temperatures settle across Florida, medical experts warn that heat poses a greater risk than many people realize. Older adults, people with chronic illnesses, outdoor workers and those taking certain medications are especially vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Florida Blue is urging residents to take preventive measures, monitor symptoms and seek medical attention immediately if signs of heat illness develop.

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Summer is expected to be hotter than usual in Florida this year — and this may put your health more at risk than you think. 

Related: What Central Florida patients should know about prior authorization changes.

According to the National Weather Service, there is a 40-50 percent chance Florida temperatures will be higher than average this summer, thanks in part to the El Niño weather pattern that could boost already high temperatures. 

Higher temperatures are a major health risk for people with chronic conditions, older adults, those who work outdoors, and people who take certain medications that affect heat tolerance. 

Rising temperatures are a growing health risk

More than 60,000 people are treated in the emergency room every year for heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses and about 13 percent of these people typically need to be hospitalized, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Florida has the most heat-related emergency room visits in the U.S., according to a Florida Policy Institute report.

And as average summer temperatures have risen over time in the U.S., so too have heat-related deaths, according to a study from the Yale School of Public Health. The report shows that since 2000, heat-related deaths in the U.S. have risen by 50 percent. 

“Many people don't realize how vulnerable they are to heat-related illnesses during Florida's intense summers,” said Dr. Thomas Graf, vice president and chief medical officer for Florida Blue.  “You can think you are fine and soon be in crisis.  When you are outside, be sure to stay hydrated, plan your activities for morning or evening when possible, limit your total time in the heat and pay attention to early signs like rapid heartbeat, no sweating or profuse sweating, headaches or nausea and get out of the heat right away” 

Here’s how heat may affect you without you even realizing it:

• You take a medication that affects your heat tolerance. This is a side effect of many common medications, including certain heart medications, decongestants, antidepressants, and more.
• You have a chronic condition like heart disease, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). These conditions can disrupt how your body reacts to temperature changes, and you’re more likely to take medications that affect you, too.
• You’re an older adult. As we age, our bodies are no longer able to regulate temperature changes as well as they did when we were younger. You’re also more likely to have chronic conditions and take medications. 
• You work outside … and have a chronic condition or take a medication that affects heat tolerance. More than 600,000 Floridians work outside, according to the Florida Policy Institute. While many outdoor workers prepare drinking plenty of water, some face risks they cannot change due to their employment, such as wearing heavy clothing. Also, some outdoor workers may not realize their risk is increased because they have a chronic condition or take a medication that affects how the body reacts to heat. 

Protect yourself in the heat

1. Stay cool: Stay inside during the hottest part of the day, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
2. Stay hydrated: Make sure to drink plenty of water or sports drinks with electrolytes.
3. Avoid strenuous activities: If you have to be outside, take frequent breaks and find shade.
4. Watch your numbers: If you have a chronic condition, keep track of your blood pressure and blood sugar and let your doctor know if something changes.
5. Protect your body: Wear sunscreen, protective layers, and a hat. And stay inside when you can. 

Most importantly, if you experience any of these symptoms, get help right away.

• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Headaches
• Weakness
• Fainting

“The good news is heat stroke is preventable,” Graf said. “Take this risk seriously. Drink water and be careful when you’re outdoors. Don’t wait to get help if you start feeling dizzy or weak. Your health is worth it.”

Key Points:

• Florida is expected to experience above-average temperatures this summer, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses.
• More than 60,000 people nationwide visit emergency rooms each year because of heat-related conditions, with Florida leading the nation in heat-related ER visits.
• Older adults, people with chronic health conditions, outdoor workers and individuals taking certain medications face elevated risks.
• Experts recommend staying hydrated, avoiding outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day and taking frequent breaks in the shade.
• Warning signs such as dizziness, nausea, headaches, weakness and fainting should be treated as medical emergencies.

For more information, visit the Florida Blue website.