Health Watch: 6 Dangerous Heat Stroke Myths That Could Put Your Health at Risk – USC News & Events

With rising temperatures, heat stroke is a real risk across the country and in South
Carolina. From youth sporting events to yardwork, recreational activities and employment,
many everyday outdoor activities can significantly increase the risk for negative
heat-related impacts.

Susan Yeargin, an associate professor of athletic training at USC’s Arnold School
of Public Health, debunks dangerous myths of treating heat stroke.

Palmetto impact: Fourteen people in South Carolina died from exposure to excessive natural heat in
2022, the most recent year for which data is available from the South Carolina Department of Public Health. Due to record breaking temperatures this summer, there have been heat stroke fatalities
across the Southeast impacting youth sports teams. 

Why it matters: “Even if you’re acclimatized to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, you might not be ready for
a 95 degree heat wave,” Yeargin says. “Some combinations of heat and humidity are
too much for anyone to safely spend much time in.”

Busting the myths about treating heat stroke

MYTH NO. 1: “Heat stroke can be prevented by hydration alone.”

FACT: While hydration is important to reduce the risk of heat illness and optimize performance,
a person can be completely hydrated and still have a heat stroke. The best prevention
strategy for heat stroke is to drink water or performance drinks before, during and
after exercise and make sure activity and work are evenly balanced with shaded breaks. 

MYTH NO. 2: “People first experience heat cramps and heat exhaustion before they suffer
heat stroke.”

FACT: Each heat illness is considered an independent condition, meaning progression from
one stage to another is not required. Heat stroke can occur suddenly without prior
symptoms of heat exhaustion or other milder heat-related conditions. Early indicators
may include altered mental status, disorientation or loss of consciousness. Call 911
when these signs appear, because immediate emergency medical attention is critical.

MYTH NO. 3: “People stop sweating when they suffer a heat stroke.”

FACT: People who have heat stroke because they were exercising or working outside are usually
profusely sweating. Don’t rely on the sight of sweat as a way to recognize heat stroke.
Look for clues of personality changes or confusion. 

MYTH NO. 4: “Drinking cold fluids can send a heat illness victim into shock.”

FACT: Giving a cold drink to someone with a heat illness is a common-sense approach to providing
aid. The fluids will help rehydrate their bodies and can help the body cool down a
little. 

MYTH NO. 5: “Eating bananas or mustard and drinking pickle juice can help prevent
or treat heat cramps.”

FACT: People love to suggest a “magic” food or drink as a cure-all, and there is some evidence
pickle juice can work. The fact is that good nutrition leading up to exercise and
muscles being fit enough from prior conditioning can prevent cramps. Stretching, drinking
fluids and eating a salty food such as pretzels can help treat heat cramps.

MYTH NO. 6: “Putting someone with heat stroke into an ice water bath will send them
into shock.”

FACT: Ice water immersion of the body is the most effective way to reduce core body temperature.
If full ice bath equipment is not available, items from around the house such as a
tarp or kiddie pool can perform the same function.

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