Heat Can Kill |
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Hot weather health emergencies
Even short periods of high temperatures can cause serious health problems. Two common problems are heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Heat stroke occurs when the body is unable to regulate its temperature. The body's temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cool down. Body temperature may rise to 106°F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided. Recognizing heat stroke Warning signs of heat stroke vary but may include:
What to Do If you see any of these signs, you may be dealing with a life-threatening emergency. Have someone call for immediate medical assistance while you begin cooling the victim. Do the following:
Sometimes a victim's muscles will begin to twitch uncontrollably as a result of heat stroke. If this happens, keep the victim from injuring himself, but do not place any object in the mouth or provide any fluids. If there is vomiting, make sure the airway remains open by turning the victim on his or her side.
Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness that can develop after several days of exposure to high temperatures and inadequate or unbalanced replacement of fluids. Those most prone to heat exhaustion are elderly people, people with high blood pressure, and people working or exercising in a hot environment. Recognizing heat exhaustion Warning signs of heat exhaustion include:
The skin may be cool and moist. The victim's pulse rate will be fast and weak, and breathing will be fast and shallow. If heat exhaustion is untreated, it may progress to heat stroke. Seek medical attention immediately if: • Symptoms are severe. Otherwise, help the victim to cool off, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or last longer than one hour. What to do Cooling measures that may be effective include:
Heat cramps usually affect people who sweat a lot during strenuous activity. This sweating depletes the body's salt and moisture. The low salt level in the muscles causes painful cramps. Heat cramps may also be a symptom of heat exhaustion. Recognizing heat cramps Heat cramps are muscle pains or spasms, usually in the abdomen, arms, or legs, that may occur in association with strenuous activity. If you have heart problems or are on a low-sodium diet, get medical attention for heat cramps. What to do If medical attention is not necessary, take these steps:
Sunburn should be avoided because it damages the skin. Although the discomfort is usually minor and healing often occurs in about a week, a more severe sunburn may require medical attention. Recognizing sunburn Symptoms of sunburn are well known: Skin becomes red, painful, and abnormally warm after sun exposure. Sunburn treatment Consult a doctor if the sunburn affects an infant younger than 1 year of age or if these symptoms are present: • Fever Remember these tips when treating sunburn: • Avoid repeated sun exposure.
Heat rash is a skin irritation caused by excessive sweating during hot, humid weather. It can occur at any age but is most common in young children. Recognizing heat rash Heat rash looks like a red cluster of pimples or small blisters. It is more likely to occur on the neck and upper chest, in the groin, under the breasts, and in elbow creases. Heat rash treatment The best treatment for heat rash is to provide a cooler, less humid environment. Keep the affected area dry. Dusting powder may be used to increase comfort, but avoid using ointments or creams . they keep the skin warm and moist and may make the condition worse. Treating heat rash is simple and usually does not require medical assistance. Other heat-related problems can be much more severe.
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Quick Links |
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• National Weather Service: Heat index calculator • Unisys weather: Current heat index map: • familydoctor.org: Heat-related illness: What you can do to prevent it • American Academy of Family Physicians: Heat-related illnesses • American Red Cross: Health and safety tips |
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Helpful Tips |
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Get cool quickly The best defense for beating the heat is prevention. Staying cool and making simple changes in your fluid intake, activities, and clothing during hot weather can help you remain safe and healthy. • Apply sunscreen to your skin before going out in the sun. |
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