July 1, 2025
“Hey Dr. K” – What Kinds of Heat-Related Illnesses Are There and How Can I Protect Myself?
Spring, TX July 1, 2025: Summer is officially here, and the heat is upon us. Acclimating to our uniquely hot and humid temperatures can be particularly challenging for the very young, old, and medically vulnerable. But hot weather can also sneak up on relatively healthy adults as well, leading to conditions as benign as swollen feet and heat rash, to as deadly as heat stroke.
This month, Harris County ESD 11 Mobile Healthcare Medical Director Dr. Jay Kovar is asked by teens participating in a summer lunch and learn program what they need to know about heat-related illnesses and how to protect themselves this summer.
“There are about 7,000 emergency visits a year due to heat-related illness and about 700 deaths. Texas, California, and Arizona lead the nation in the number of incidents,” says Dr. Kovar.
“People on medications for heart problems, diuretics, and mental health may also be particularly vulnerable to the summer heat. Your body takes about two weeks through a hormonal process to get you ready for the summer temperatures, so take it easy on yourself when you go outside. Wear loose clothing, hydrate, and when you feel dizzy or nauseous, immediately find a cool indoor space to retreat to. It is a myth that you should gradually return to air-conditioned spaces after working in the heat. The best course of action if you get overheated is to immediately cool your body temperature down through any means available.”
Dr. Kovar also addresses the progression of heat injury, muscle weakness and spasms, cramping, and lightheadedness are all indicators that your body’s core temperature is reaching dangerous levels. It is a very short window from heat exhaustion to heat stroke. Know the signs and know what to do to protect yourself.
To watch the full video, click here and subscribe to our YouTube channel:
Dr. Kovar is here to answer your questions as well. Just call 281-524-7660 for more information. As always, if you are experiencing an emergency, remember to call 911.
About ESD 11 Mobile Healthcare
ESD 11 Mobile Healthcare covers a 177 square mile area of northern Harris County with over 700,000 residents, the largest Emergency Service District in the state of Texas. ESD 11 Mobile Healthcare receives over 65,000 calls a year and consistently ranks among the best EMS services in the country for speed of response, patient satisfaction and quality of care. The Harris County Emergency Services District 11 Communication Center, known as Control, is recognized as an ACE Accredited Center of Excellence by the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch. This prestigious designation highlights our commitment to excellence in emergency dispatch services. As an ACE-accredited agency, we enjoy increased visibility in community service, enhanced support in litigation and liability management, and improved recruitment and retention, affirming the value and impact of our team’s work.
Contact: Miranda Sevcik, Public Information Officer 346-226-8808
by 
