The Lead Off

• Doctors are warning that rising temperatures in early June are increasing the risk of heat-related illness across Indiana.
• Medical experts say the early-season heat is particularly dangerous because residents have not yet acclimated.
• Health officials are urging hydration, shade, and awareness of heat illness symptoms.

SOUTH BEND, IND. (WOWO) — Doctors are warning residents about an increased risk of heat-related illness as high temperatures and humidity continue across the region in early June.

Medical experts say the combination of elevated heat index values and limited acclimation to summer conditions is raising the likelihood of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Increased risk during early summer heat

Dr. Mark Miller, emergency department medical director at Beacon Kalamazoo, said early-season heat can be especially dangerous according to WNDU.

“With the heat index as high as it is, currently, and the fact that it’s early June and people haven’t really had much of an opportunity to get acclimated to the higher temperatures and higher humidity, that puts people at even more of a risk,” Miller said.

Doctors say higher-risk groups include young children, older adults, pregnant individuals, people with chronic medical conditions, outdoor workers, and athletes. However, they emphasize that anyone can be affected under extreme heat conditions.

Safety precautions and hydration guidance

Health officials are urging residents to take preventative steps, including staying hydrated, wearing lightweight clothing, and limiting direct sun exposure.

Doctors also warn that extreme heat can impact medications. Some prescriptions may lose effectiveness or become unsafe if exposed to high temperatures, such as being left in a parked vehicle.

Patients are encouraged to store medications at room temperature and avoid leaving them in hot environments.

Recognizing symptoms of heat illness

Medical experts outline several stages of heat-related illness:

• Heat cramps: Muscle pain or cramping in the arms, legs, or stomach, signaling a need to rest and hydrate.
• Heat exhaustion: Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, and weakness, requiring immediate cooling and fluid intake. If symptoms last more than an hour, medical care may be needed.
• Heat stroke: A medical emergency marked by confusion and loss of temperature regulation, requiring immediate 911 response.

“With heat stroke, the body has lost its ability to maintain temperature and end organ damage, we call it,” Miller said. “Organs in the body start to get damaged because of the dehydration and the high temperature.”

Next steps

Health officials are encouraging residents to monitor weather conditions, limit outdoor exposure during peak heat hours, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or do not improve.

Doctors say continued high temperatures could keep heat-related illness risks elevated in the coming days.