Dignity Health staff offers tips to stay cool as summer temps rise on the Central Coast


Use these tips to help fend off heat-related illnesses this year

Extreme heat is certainly impacting the Central Coast this summer, with temperatures approaching triple-digits in parts of Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. It's important that community members know the appropriate precautions to take during bouts of extreme heat throughout the summer. 

“High temps can lead to heat exhaustion and, in some cases, heat stroke, so it’s crucial to know the signs and when to seek medical attention,” says Dr. Greg Whitcher, an Emergency Medicine Specialist at Dignity Health’s Marian Regional Medical Center.

Natasha Lukasiewich, DNP, MSN, MBA, LNC, R, with French Hospital Medical Center’s Emergency Department, reminds Central Coast community members about the dangers of high temperatures and how the public can stay safe and protect their loved ones.

Infants, young children, elderly and pets are at great risk for heat stroke. Athletes training in extreme heat are also at high risk.

Lukasiewich says the best ways to stay hydrated is with frequent hydration with water and the use of electrolytes.

“Fruits such as watermelon are also a great source of hydration as well as coconut water,” Lukasiewich says. 

Other ways to stay cool, according to Lukasiewich, include: 

  • Drinking cool liquids
  • Going somewhere with cooler air
  • Getting in cool water
  • Applying cold to key points on the body
  • Moving less
  • Wearing lighter, more breathable clothing
  • Taking heat regulating supplements
  • Talking to a doctor about thyroid health

Common symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke include: 

  • Tiredness
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Feeling sick or being sick
  • Excessive sweating and skin becoming pale and clammy or getting a heat rash
  • Cramps in the arms, legs and stomach
  • Fast breathing or heartbeat
  • A high temperature

According to Lukasiewich, you should seek medical attention for heat-related illness if you have a core body temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher, which indicates heatstroke. You should also call 911 and/or head to your local emergency department if someone:

  • Faints
  • Becomes agitated
  • Is confused
  • Has a seizure
  • Is not able to drink
  • Loses consciousness 
  • Vomits

To learn more about the services offered at Dignity Health Central Coast, visit https://www.dignityhealth.org/central-coast/locations.