Beat the Heat
7/10/2025
DeTar Urges Community to Watch for Signs of Heat Exhaustion & Heatstroke
With scorching summer temperatures gripping South Texas, DeTar Healthcare System is urging residents of Victoria and the Crossroads to be vigilant against the dangers of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, both of which can escalate quickly and require emergency care —especially during outdoor activities and gatherings.
“Heatstroke can be life-threatening, and it often begins with subtle symptoms,” said Dr. Todd Francis, Emergency Medicine physician at DeTar Healthcare System. “Whether you’re working outside, grilling, or other activity, hydration and rest are just as important as sun protection.”
The National Weather Service reports that South Texas has been experiencing daily highs in the mid-to-upper 90s, with heat indexes exceeding 100°F due to high humidity. Some areas across the state are even seeing triple-digit temperatures that outpace historical norms. With families spending extended hours outdoors—DeTar physicians warn that heat-related illnesses pose a serious, yet preventable, risk.
Heat-related illness is no small threat. Heat exhaustion begins when the body loses hydration and salt, causing symptoms like heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, and extreme weakness. If untreated, it can escalate to heatstroke—a medical emergency where body temperature reaches 104°F or higher, leading to confusion, loss of consciousness, and organ damage.
- Spot the Signs: Heat Exhaustion vs. Heatstroke Condition
- Heat Exhaustion - Heavy sweating, cramps, dizziness, weakness, nausea, headache
- Heatstroke - Body temp ≥ 104 °F, hot/dry skin, confusion, seizures, unconsciousness – a medical emergency, call 9‑1‑1 immediately
According to data from the Texas Department of State Health Services and reported by The Texas Tribune, 2023 saw a record-breaking 365 deaths directly caused by heat in Texas—rising to 562 deaths when including cases where heat was a contributing factor, marking the highest heat-related death toll in state history. This alarming figure highlights the increasing risk posed by extreme summer temperatures across the state.
Tips to Stay Safe in the Heat
- Stay Hydrated: Sip water consistently—even if you don’t feel thirsty; avoid alcohol & caffeine.
- Dress Smart: Choose light, breathable clothing and wear a hat.
- Schedule Wisely: Avoid physical exertion between 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; rest frequently in shade.
- Watch Vulnerable Individuals: Focus on elderly, children, outdoor workers, and pets.
- Seek Air-Conditioned Relief: Use homes, community centers, libraries, or cooling stations.
Seek emergency care or call 9‑1‑1 if someone shows signs of heatstroke, such as confusion, convulsions, or loss of consciousness. For heat exhaustion, move to a cool spot, hydrate, and apply cool cloths—seek immediate medical attention if symptoms don’t improve within an hour.
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