Heatwaves and extreme temperatures can lead to serious health risks. Healthcare professionals are key to identifying, managing and preventing heat-related illnesses. For detailed clinical guidance, visit HealthPathways.
Who is most at risk?
Heatwaves can cause serious illness, particularly for vulnerable groups. The body cools itself by sweating, but in extreme heat, this process can be overwhelmed. Older adults sweat less, and young children generate more heat, sweat less and experience faster temperature increases, making them more at risk.
These groups are at greater risk of heat-related problems, such as heatstroke:
- people aged over 65 years
- babies and young children
- females who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- people with existing medical conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, kidney disease and mental illness
- people who work outdoors
- people who are overweight or with obesity
- people who are taking certain prescription medicines
- people who are socially isolated or homeless
Recognising heat-related illnesses:
Educating patients the importance of early detection is key to preventing complications. Below are common conditions and their symptoms:
Heat exhaustion
Symptoms may include:
- pale skin
- headache
- nausea, vomiting
- dizziness, fainting
- weakness
- irritability
- thirst
- heavy sweating
- muscle cramps
- decreased urine output
Heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke, which is a life-threatening condition.
Heatstroke:
Symptoms may include:
- confusion
- slurred speech
- agitation and altered mental state
- loss of consciousness
- profuse sweating or hot, dry skin
- muscle twitching or seizures
- rapid breathing
- a quick and strong pulse
- very high body temperature
Clinical guidance available on HealthPathways. Factsheets for patient guidance are available in English, Vietnamese, Simplified Chinese and Arabic.
Resources to help you prepare for heatwaves
At-risk community members can prepare for heatwaves and heatstroke using the resources below:
Heatstroke – Health Resource Directory
Preparing for a heatwave – Health Resource Directory
Your health matters in a disaster – flyer
Healthcare providers can find more information at:
Additional Resources:
Access more tools and information to support your practice: