Extreme heat raises health concerns in NYC, NJ
NEW YORK (PIX11) -- New York and New Jersey have seen record-breaking temperatures amid the extreme heat that has gripped the tri-state area Monday.
Temperatures and heat indexes are only going to climb on Tuesday, as we reach the peak of the heat wave.
Long periods of exposure to extreme heat can increase health risks, including dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and more.
People are advised to hydrate and remain indoors or seek air-conditioned spaces for a few hours each day to minimize the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Heat-related illnesses can be severe and potentially fatal. Understand the symptoms of these illnesses and the steps to take if you or someone you know exhibits these symptoms.
Heat stroke
Heat stroke occurs when the body loses its ability to regulate temperature, causing a rapid rise in body temperature. Body temperature could rise to 106 degrees or even higher within 10 to 15 minutes.
The body's sweating mechanism fails, preventing it from cooling down effectively. Symptoms include:
- Hot, dry skin
- Confusion, hallucinations, and disorientation
- Loss of consciousness or being unresponsive
- Nausea or vomiting
- Trouble breathing
- Fast, strong pulse
- Weakness
- Dizziness
What to do: Call 911 immediately. Cool the person quickly by wetting their skin with cold, wet cloths or ice packs. Bring them to a cool place with fans or an AC, and stay with them until emergency medical services arrive.
If outdoors, move the person into a shaded, cool area, and remove outer clothing.
Heat exhaustion
Heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses excessive amounts of water and salt, typically through sweating. Symptoms include:
- Heavy sweating
- Cold, pale, clammy skin
- Dizziness or fainting
- Nausea
- Vomiting
What to do: Move the person to a cooler space and have them sip water slowly and frequently. Remove unnecessary clothing and use cold compresses or cold water on the head, face, and neck. Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, so contact 911 if medical care is unavailable.
Heat cramps
Excessive sweating can deplete the body's salt and moisture levels, resulting in muscle cramps or spasms.
What to do: Have the person drink cool water or a drink that replenishes electrolytes, and apply firm pressure to the cramping muscle. Gently stretch and massage the cramped muscle. Seek medical help if cramps do not subside within one hour.
Heat rash
Heat rash is caused by excessive sweating. You may develop skin irritation that looks like a red cluster of blisters or pimples.
What to do: Move the person to a cool place and keep the skin dry. Apply powder for comfort, but do not use ointments or creams.
For information on cooling centers, click here.
Ben Mitchell is a digital content producer from Vermont who has covered both local and international news since 2021. He joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of his work here.