As summer heat settles in across South Carolina, extreme temperatures combined with high humidity can create dangerous conditions, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses.
According to data from the South Carolina Department of Public Health, areas with the highest number of heat-related hospitalizations annually include Richland, Horry, Greenville, Charleston and Lexington counties.
While population plays a role in the number of reported cases, the risks posed by extreme heat are not just limited to population centers.
Within each community, factors such as a person’s age, underlying health conditions, time spent outdoors and access to air conditioning can all influence a resident's vulnerability to the weather.
Certain professions can also lead to increased risks during the warmer months.
According to state data, construction workers, landscapers and postal carriers are among the jobs that spend the most time outdoors, increasing chances of experiencing heat-related issues.
To combat the heat, the body’s main cooling mechanism is sweating, but when humidity levels are high, sweat does not evaporate as easily, making it more difficult to cool down.
When the body is unable to cool itself, it can lead to heat-related illnesses, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Heat cramps are often one of the first warning signs that the body is struggling with the weather conditions.
Heat cramps can progress into heat exhaustion, which includes exhibiting weakness, dizziness, a headache and even nausea.
Heat stroke is the most serious form of heat-related illnesses, and the condition can become life-threatening. Signs of heat stroke include red skin, confusion, loss of consciousness, rapid pulse and shallow breathing.
Health experts say when someone begins showing signs of a heat-related illness, the first step is to remove them from the hot weather. Additionally, applying cool, wet towels and drinking water can also provide initial relief while waiting for medical assistance.
The best way to avoid heat-related illnesses is through prevention, such as staying in air conditioning when possible, avoiding strenuous activity during the warmest parts of the day and staying properly hydrated.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also stresses that children and pets should never be left inside a parked vehicle.
Temperatures inside a vehicle can quickly rise to dangerous levels, even though the outdoor temperature may not be considered to be extreme.
The hottest air temperature ever officially recorded in South Carolina was 113 degrees Fahrenheit, which occurred on the University of South Carolina campus in Columbia on June 29, 2012.
