Atrium Health Floyd Cherokee Medical Director Visits WEIS Radio to Discuss Heat Safety

Centre, Ala. — With summer temperatures on the rise, Dr. P.J. Lynn, Medical Director of Atrium Health Floyd Cherokee and Atrium Health Floyd Polk, visited the studios of WEIS Radio on Wednesday to share important information about heat-related illnesses and how to prevent them. The visit comes as weather forecasts predict a return to 90-degree temperatures early next week, following an unseasonably mild start to August.

You can hear the interview here:

Dr. Lynn emphasized that despite the recent cooler weather, residents should remain vigilant and take precautions as extreme heat returns to the region. He noted that young children and older adults are particularly vulnerable to heat-related injuries. Children can overheat faster due to their smaller body size, while older adults, especially those on diuretics for high blood pressure or heart conditions, can dehydrate more easily.

One of the key dangers discussed was the risk of leaving children, seniors, or pets in vehicles. Dr. Lynn reminded listeners that even on seemingly mild days, the interior temperature of a car can rise rapidly, creating life-threatening conditions.

The discussion also highlighted the risks faced by student-athletes and those exercising outdoors. Dr. Lynn urged athletes and coaches to take frequent breaks, hydrate well before activity, and avoid outdoor workouts during the hottest parts of the day. Waiting until symptoms of overheating appear may be too late.

Dr. Lynn outlined the warning signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include nausea, fatigue, dizziness, muscle cramps, pale or clammy skin, and excessive sweating. Heat stroke, a medical emergency, is marked by no sweating, confusion, rapid heartbeat, flushed dry skin, a body temperature over 105°F, and possibly fainting. In such cases, Dr. Lynn stressed the need to call 911 immediately, move the person to a cool area, apply cold water or ice, and offer water if they are conscious.

Prevention tips shared by Dr. Lynn included:

• Hydrating regularly, even without feeling thirsty, while avoiding caffeine and alcohol.

• Wearing light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, along with sunscreen and hats when outdoors.

• Staying indoors during peak heat hours and using air conditioning when possible. Those without AC are encouraged to visit public places such as libraries or malls to stay cool.

• Checking on neighbors and family members, especially the elderly or those living without air conditioning, to ensure they are staying hydrated and safe.

Dr. Lynn’s visit to WEIS Radio is part of Atrium Health Floyd’s ongoing effort to educate the public on staying healthy and safe during extreme weather conditions. The full interview with Dr. Lynn is available on the WEIS Radio website for those seeking more in-depth information.

With hotter days ahead, the Cherokee County community is encouraged to stay informed and take heat safety seriously to protect both themselves and those around them.

https://www.floyd.org/find-a-location/Pages/cherokeemedicalcenter.aspx

https://weisradio.com/2025/06/22/extreme-heat-know-how-to-protect-yourself-and-your-family/