Heat-Related Illnesses
Combined heat and humidity slow the evaporation of sweat from the body making even the simplest of outdoor exercises or activities dangerous. That's why you should not only be aware of the signs of heat-related illness, but also do whatever is necessary to protect yourself.
One great way to stay safe in hot weather is to observe the buddy system. Never work outside in the heat alone or at least have someone check in on you to make sure you are not getting over-heated.
Below is a list of heat-related illnesses and their causes and symptoms:
Heat Cramps: Painful muscle cramps from over-exertion in hot weather due to brief imbalances in body salts/minerals and fluids.
Treatment
1) Get to a place to rest and cool down
2) Drink water or an electrolyte-replenishing sports drink
3) Gently stretch or massage affected muscles
4) Rest for several hours after cramps subside before resuming strenuous activity
5) If cramps remain for an hour or longer, call your doctor
Heat Fainting: Stressing your body physically during high temperatures can cause blood pressure to drop quickly leading to light-headedness and fainting.
Treatment
1) Lay down face up in a cool room with legs raised
2) Drink water slowly to cool body temperature
Heat Exhaustion: The most common heat-related condition, it occurs more frequently during heat waves when fluids are lost through sweat and the body becomes dehydrated.
Symptoms
*Feeling faint or dizzy
*Nausea
*Sweating heavily
*Rapid, weak heartbeat
*Low blood pressure
*Skin appears pale, cool and moist
*Low-grade fever is present
*Experiencing heat cramps
*Headache
*Fatigue
*Urine is dark in color
Treatment
1) Get to a cool place
2) Lay down and elevate legs
3) Loosen clothing
4) Drink water slowly to rehydrate
5) Cool off with cold, wet towels or fan
6) Watch for more serious signs that could indicate heatstroke.
7) Call 911 if condition worsens. Watch for signs of confusion, seizures or if fever climbs to 104 degrees or higher.
Heatstroke: A life-threatening condition when body temp rises to 105 degrees or higher. Heat exhaustion can quickly turn to heatstroke if person is not treated immediately.
Symptoms
*Rapid heartbeat
*Quick, shallow breathing
*Blood pressure is either elevated or lowered
*Sweating has stopped
*Irritability, confusion or unconsciousness
*Dizziness or light-headedness
*Headache
*Nausea
*Fainting
Treatment
1) Move immediately to a cool place
2) Call 911
3) Cover with cool, damp sheets or towels or spray with cool water
4) Fan with cooler air
5) Drink cool water slowly, if possible
How to Avoid Heat-Related Illness
Stay Cool
When temperatures and humidity soar, it's best to stay in a cool, air-conditioned room. Fans only circulate the warm air, so seek rooms or places with air conditioning. Take frequent breaks during the day to cool off.
Avoid direct sunlight - do any outside work in the early morning or evening when the sun is not as bright.
Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing that won't absorb the sun's heat. Be sure to cover your head with a hat and wear sunglasses. Don't forget the sunscreen!
Cool off with a cool shower or bath - it helps to bring down your core body temp.
Stay Hydrated
Your body loses necessary fluids, including vital salt and minerals, during activities in extreme heat that can quickly cause you to become dehydrated. Drink plenty of water or replenishing drinks even when you're not thirsty. Two to four cups for every hour you work outside is recommended.
Stay Informed
Check weather updates or alerts for UV index, heat index and air quality. Know the signs of heat-related illness to stay safe and healthy.
Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors, however excessive heat and humidity can make it dangerous and even deadly. Know the signs to protect yourself and use common sense. It could save your life.
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