Extreme heat is becoming more common in the era of climate change, and it affects every bodily system. David Terca, MD, emergency medicine physician
“Extreme heat is becoming more common in the era of climate change, and it affects every bodily system,” said David Terca, MD, emergency medicine assistant chief for Kaiser Permanente in Northern California.
“It especially affects children and the elderly, but really everybody’s system and every illness can be affected by extreme heat.”
According to Dr. Terca, extreme heat can make certain health conditions like asthma, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), and diabetes worse.
Sign up for emergency alerts in your area. State emergency management offices for Kaiser Permanente areas are:
Heat.gov is a one-stop hub for information and resources to help you better understand and reduce the health risks of extreme heat.
If you can’t afford your cooling costs, weatherization expenses, or energy-related home repairs, contact the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program for help.
Find assistance programs in your area using the Kaiser Permanente Community Support Hub.
The American Red Cross has more tips on what you should do before, during, and after extreme heat events.