June 15, 2015
As the Temperature Rises Be aware of several health issues that can occur and be sure to take appropriate precautions.
A heat-related illness is a medical condition that may occur as a result of heat exposure. Even short periods of high temperatures can cause serious health problems. Heat-related illness encompasses a spectrum of conditions that range from minor illnesses to life-threatening medical emergencies. There are several heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion, heat cramps, and heat rash. People suffer heat-related illness when the body’s normal temperature control system is unable to effectively regulate its internal temperature. Normally, at high temperatures the body primarily cools itself through the evaporation of sweat. However, under certain conditions (air temperatures above 95 F/35 C high humidity), this cooling mechanism becomes less effective. When the humidity is high, sweat will not evaporate as quickly, preventing the body from releasing heat quickly. Furthermore, without adequate fluid intake, excessive fluid losses and electrolyte imbalances may also occur leading to dehydration.
Heat Exhaustion: Heat exhaustion is the body’s response to an excessive loss of water and salt contained in sweat. Those most prone to heat exhaustion are elderly people, people taking high blood pressure medication and people working or exercising in a hot environment. Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms are severe or the victim has heart problems or high blood pressure. Otherwise, help the victim to cool off, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or last longer than 1 hour. Warning signs of heat exhaustion include: • heavy sweating • dizziness • muscle cramps • weakness or tiredness • paleness • headache • fainting • nausea or vomiting Heat Cramps: Heat cramps usually affect people who sweat significantly 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. What is the treatment for heat cramps? • Stop all activity, and sit quietly in a cool place. • Drink clear juice or a sports beverage. • Do not return to strenuous activity for a few hours after the cramps subside because further exertion may lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. • Seek medical attention for heat cramps if they do not subside in 1 hour. Heat Rash: Commonly known as prickly heat, the rash begins to appear as itchy bumps on the chest and back, especially
when the air is humid. Prevention is the best treatment. It’s uncomfortable because it’s itchy, but once you have it, there’s not a whole lot you can do to make it go away. Hot muggy weather is the best breeding ground for heat rash, and during these hot summer months is the most likely time for it to develop. If you are going to be spending time outdoors in the heat, wear lightcolored, loose clothing. It is important to make sure your sweat glands are not blocked.
During Hot Weather: To protect your health when temperatures are extremely high, remember to keep cool and use common sense. It is important to drink plenty of fluids, wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen and schedule outdoor activities carefully. Brought to you by Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. / Source: http://www.medicinenet.com/