Heat illnesses in clinical practice

Author: C. Sorensen et al.

Year: 2022

Published in: BMJ

  • Increased frequency and intensity of heatwaves are leading to greater incidence of heat illness and exacerbations of heat sensitive disease (eg, cardiac, respiratory, renal, and mental health conditions) globally

  • People over 65, pregnant women, infants, young children, athletes, outdoor workers, those living in urban environments, patients with comorbidities, and those on certain medications are particularly at risk of heat related illness

  • The foundations of managing heat illnesses include recognising heat as a cause, removing patients from hot environments, and rapid cooling