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Beat the Summer Heat
Record high temperatures are wreaking havoc for many parts of the nation this summer. Unfortunately, the heat can cause serious medical problems, and even death. The elderly, young children, and people with other medical conditions are most at risk. Certain medications can also affect how your body responds to the heat.
Simple precautions can minimize the danger. Drink plenty of fluids, wear loose, light-colored clothing, and take lots of rest breaks if you’re working or playing outside in the heat.
If you begin to feel ill, you could have heat exhaustion. Left untreated, the condition can lead to heat stroke and even death. Be alert to the signs of these conditions in yourself and others. Knowing what to do can save a life.
Signs of heat exhaustion include:
- Muscle cramps
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Heavy perspiration
- Damp skin
- Low blood pressure
- Fast pulse
- Body temperature over 100 degrees
What to do:
- Get to a cool, shady or air-conditioned place.
- Sip fluids slowly. (No caffeine or alcohol)
- Apply damp, cool cloths to the body.
Signs of heat stroke include:
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Fast, weak pulse
- Dizziness
- Pale, dry skin (not sweating)
- High blood pressure
- Body temperature over 105 degrees
- Blurred vision
- Seizures
- Delirium or loss of consciousness
What to do:
- Call 911 for emergency medical help.
- Move the victim to a cool, shady or air-conditioned place and remove clothing.
- Cool the body quickly with wet cloths, by sponging, or by spraying with water and fanning.
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| Information and links found on the UT Medical Group, Inc. web site are neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency call your healthcare provider immediately. | |||
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