Heat-related illnesses

Heat-related illness happens when the body’s temperature control system is overloaded. Children, the elderly and people with chronic conditions are usually the first to suffer from heat-related illness. Heat exhaustion, cramps or, in extreme cases, heat stroke can result from prolonged exposure to hot temperatures.

Data in this section is from the Kansas Syndromic Surveillance Program. These charts will be updated weekly through September 2018. The data fluctuates based on hospital reporting.

Heat

Data collection was supported by the Grant or Cooperative Agreement Number 1 U50 OE000069-01, funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the Department of Health and Human Services.

Peopleheat

Know the Signs and Symptoms

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Tiredness/weakness
  • Fainting or loss of consciousness
  • Cramping

If you think you or a loved one are exhibiting these symptoms, then you should move to a cool place, sip water and use cool cloths on the body. Always seek appropriate medical attention as necessary. 

Heat stroke (high body temperature, passing out, confusion) is considered a medical emergency. Call 911.

To learn more about warning signs and symptoms of heat-related illness, click here on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.

To prevent heat-related illness:

  • Stay in an air-conditioned indoor location as much as possible.
  • Drink cool, nonalcoholic beverages and increase fluid intake, regardless of activity level.
  • Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
  • Schedule outdoor activities carefully.
  • Pace yourself.
  • Take cool showers or baths to cool down.
  • Check on a friend or neighbor, especially the elderly. Social isolation is one of the main risk factors for heat-related illness and death.
  • Do not leave children or pets in cars.
  • Listen to your body. Signs of heat exhaustion include: heavy sweating, weakness, cold and clammy skin, fast or weak pulse, nausea or vomiting, and fainting. If you have these symptoms, move to a cooler location, lie down and loosen clothing, apply cool and wet cloths to body and sip water. If you have vomited and it continues, call 911. Signs of heat stroke include a temperature above 103 degrees, rapid and strong pulse, and possible unconsciousness. Call 911 immediately if you have these symptoms.