Heat Stroke Warning Signs Every Southern Utah Family Should Know
With summer activities in full swing across southern Utah, health officials are reminding residents and visitors to stay safe in the heat and know when an illness or injury requires emergency care. During an interview on the Big Picture Morning Show on KSUB radio, Cedar City Intermountain Health Injury Prevention Coordinator and registered nurse Josh Calloway discussed common summertime health concerns and offered guidance on preventing heat-related illnesses.
Calloway said heat exhaustion and heat stroke are among the most common conditions treated during the hottest months of the year. "Heat exhaustion and heat stroke, we see a whole lot of that, you know, especially in these really hot, dry summer months," he said. He encouraged people to stay hydrated, take breaks in the shade and find ways to cool down before symptoms become severe. A misting fan at Intermountain Health's July Jamboree booth, he noted, made a noticeable difference for visitors seeking relief from the heat.
When it comes to hydration, Calloway emphasized that water remains the best choice. While sports drinks can be helpful in some situations, he cautioned against relying on them exclusively because of their sugar and sodium content. "Water truly is the gold standard for sure," he said.
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Calloway also explained the difference between situations that can be treated at an InstaCare clinic and those that require an emergency room visit. Minor sprains, small cuts, mild dehydration, bug bites and first-degree burns are generally appropriate for urgent care. However, people experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, severe lacerations or worsening symptoms from heat illness should head directly to the emergency room.
He said warning signs of heat stroke include confusion, dizziness and the inability to sweat. Once the body loses its ability to cool itself, the condition can quickly become life-threatening. Individuals with chronic health conditions such as kidney or heart disease should also consider going directly to the emergency room if they develop symptoms of heat illness.
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Summer recreation also increases the risk of injuries from trampolines, bicycles, ATVs and outdoor activities. Calloway advised parents to seek emergency care if a child falls several feet, loses consciousness after a head injury, begins vomiting or suffers a burn that blisters or covers a large area.
Calloway added that Cedar City Intermountain Health's expanded emergency department has significantly improved patient flow, helping reduce wait times while allowing staff to care for patients more quickly during the busy summer season.
Listen to our entire discussion with Josh Calloway in the podcast below.
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Gallery Credit: Scott Clow
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