Heat Waves

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Overview

The National Weather Service developed the heat index to help people identify days when the risk for a heat illness is higher than normal. During a heat wave, the heat index is excessive for many days in a row. Everyone has an increased risk for a heat-related illness during a heat wave.

A heat-related illness can be more serious for:

  • Older adults, who may not notice excessive heat, do not sweat as effectively, or do not feel thirsty.
  • Infants and children, who can't transfer heat very well.
  • People with chronic medical conditions, such as heart disease, mental illness, or being overweight..
  • People with developmental problems.

Other things that affect a person's risk for a heat-related illness during a heat wave include:

  • Living in cities, because heat is trapped by tall buildings and air pollutants.
  • Living alone.
  • Working outdoors.
  • Exercising outside.
  • Not having cooling devices, such as fans or air-conditioning.

Related Information

Credits

Current as of: October 24, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: October 24, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: October 24, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.