Cynthia Ford: The Heat Is On

The Heat Is On!

story by Cynthia Ford

It is summertime and the heat is officially on! Often with warm weather, there is an increase in outdoor activities, such as gardening and recreational activities. During the summer, scorching heat reigns with a smothering stillness. The stirring rays can capture your breath, forcing a shift in breathing techniques from deep, shallow to an average gliding pace. The increase in outside temperatures yields an increase in possible heat-related injuries or even death. Every year there are countless heat injuries and deaths throughout the world that could have possibly been prevented. It is vital to take preventable measures to ensure that you are healthy and prepared for the rising temperatures. Our bodies are designed to automatically protect themselves from harm. When you are hot, your body produces sweat as a mechanism of cooling your body off. This sweat causes water loss from your body, eventually leading to dehydration. Like a domino effect, other body systems begin to work towards relief and return to a normal balance. Excess heat disturbs the body’s natural temperature and leads to temporary or even permanent illnesses. Several heat-related illnesses can occur as a result of exposure to high temperatures. These illnesses include heat stroke, heat rash, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, and sunburn. Prevent exposure to these heat illnesses by preparing and understanding the risk and symptoms. We are unable to control the weather and temperatures. However, we can all work together to prevent heat illnesses for ourselves and those around us. Offer a kind gesture to others who may be unable to sufficiently meet their needs. One method of helping is by providing cooling stations throughout the community. This can be as simple as a tent with cooling fans or as in-depth as a community center with central air. Another gesture may be to offer a bottle of water. Consider performing strenuous outside activities during an earlier or later time of day when temperatures are less elevated. Engaging in outdoor activities during the hottest part

HEAT ILLNESS

HOW TO MANAGE IT

Heat Stroke High body temperature (103 degrees or higher) Hot, red, dry or damp skin Fast/strong pulse Dizziness Nausea Confusion Loss of Consciousness

Heat Exhaustion Heavy sweating Cool, pale, clammy skin Fast, weak pulse Nausea and vomiting Muscle cramps Tiredness/weakness Dizziness

Heat Cramps Heaving sweating during intense exercise Muscle pain/spasms

Sunburn Painful, red, and warm skin Blisters on skin Call 911 Move the person to a cooler place Use cool cloth or cool bath to lower temperature Do not give the person anything to drink

Move to a cool place Loosen clothes Cool cloth/Cool bath Sip water Seeking medical attention is symptoms worsen in an hour

Discontinue activity and move to a cool place Drink a sports drink or water Wait for symptoms to subside before resuming activity.

Stay out of the sun until you heal Cool cloths and cool baths Moisturizing lotions Do not break blisters

Stay in a cool dry place Keep rash dry Use powder to soothe the rash

Heat Rash Red clusters or small blisters

of the day usually translates to higher risks. Wear appropriate clothing to help prevent excess heat absorption. Plan activities and be mindful of weather predictions. Offer assistance to vulnerable populations such as the elderly and children. Educating others on understanding the warning signs of heat-related illnesses and utilizing preventive measures is essential. Many experts offer reminders towards the beginning of summer and throughout the summer as record-breaking temperatures are announced. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) is a central resource point that offers resources and facts for health-related concerns. The CDC provided the following facts as an awareness tool for understanding the warning signs for heat illnesses.