Prepared Neighborhood Newsletter Jul. - Sep. 2013

             July – Sept 2013

Heat Stroke & exhaustion

  The terms “heat exhaustion” and “heat stroke” are often used interchangeably, but they are actually quite different. While both are caused by being exposed to extreme heat- the consequences of the much more serious heat stroke can be deadly.

Heat Stroke

  A potentially fatal condition caused by overexposure to heat. Heat stroke is characterized by high body core temperature and hot, dry skin, usually flushed. Sufferers show signs of mental confusion and loss of muscular coordination. They may collapse into unconsciousness. There is an urgent need to reduce the body temperature rapidly by loosening clothing, fanning, and tepid sponging. However, iced fluids and iced baths should not be used because they may constrict blood vessels, reducing the blood supply to the skin and the means by which heat can escape. Medical attention is necessary; hospitalization may be required as there is a danger of kidney failure. During June 1995, there was an unprecedented heat wave in Chicago when more than 400 fatalities were attributed to very high temperatures and humidities.

Heat Exhaustion

• Heat exhaustion is one part of the spectrum of heat-related illnesses that begin with heat cramps, progress to heat exhaustion, and finally to heat stroke.
• The body cools itself by sweating and allowing that sweat to evaporate. This requires enough fluid in the body to make sweat, air circulating across the skin, and low enough air humidity to allow that sweat to evaporate.
• Activity in a hot environment can overwhelm the body's ability to cool itself, causing heat-related symptoms.
• Symptoms of heat exhaustion include profuse sweating, weakness, nausea, vomiting, headache, lightheadedness, and muscle cramps.
• Heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke when the body's temperature regulation fails. The affected individual develops a change in mental status, becomes confused, lethargic and may have a seizure, the skin stops sweating, and the body temperature may exceed 106 F (41 C ). This is a life-threatening condition and emergency medical attention is needed immediately.
• Treatment for heat exhaustion includes recognizing the symptoms, stopping the activity, and moving to a cooler environment. Rehydration with water or a sports drink is the cornerstone of treatment for heat exhaustion. If nausea or vomiting prevents the affected individual from drinking enough water, intravenous fluids may be required.

 

  Here are the symptoms of heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and other types of heat stress, according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

 

HEAT CRAMPS : Painful cramps caused by low salt levels in the body due to excessive sweating.

Symptoms include:

• Muscle pain or spasms; usually in the arms, legs, or abdomen.

First aid for heat cramps:

• Stop all activity, and sit in a cool place
• Drink clear juice or a sports drink
• Avoid physical activity for a few hours after the cramps subside
• Seek medical attention if the sick has heart problems, is on a low-sodium diet, or the cramps do not subside in an hour’s time.

HEAT EXHAUSTION : The body’s response to losing excessive amounts of water and salt.

Symptoms include: Heavy sweating, dizziness, muscle cramps, change in complexion, nausea, clammy skin, higher body temperature, fast and shallow breathing.

First aid for heat exhaustion:

• Have the sick rest in an area that is cool, shaded, or air conditioned
• Have them drink plenty of water
• Have them take a cool shower or sponge bath

HEAT STROKE : When the body is unable to cool down; under heat stroke, body temperature can reach 106 degrees or higher within minutes. Can cause death or permanent disability.

Symptoms include:

• Profuse sweating or hot, dry skin
• Chills
• Hallucinations
• High body temperature
• Confusion/dizziness
• Slurred speech
• Throbbing headache.

First aid for heat stroke:

• Call 9-1-1 immediately
• Be sure that the sick is placed in a cool area
• Cool the sick by soaking their clothes with water or fanning their body.

Ways To Keep Cool When it's Hot

  Keeping cool when temperatures reach record highs isn't just about comfort. Dangerously high temperatures can result in heat-related illnesses ranging from heat cramps to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. The following tips can help you keep cool all summer long.

Alter your pattern of outdoor exercise to take advantage of cooler times (early morning or late evening). If you can't change the time of your workout, scale it down by doing fewer minutes, walking instead or running, or decreasing your level of exertion.

1. Wear loose-fitting clothing, preferably of a light color.
2. Cotton clothing will keep you cooler than many synthetics.
3. Fill a spray bottle with water and keep it in the refrigerator for a quick refreshing spray to your face after being outdoors.
4. Fans can help circulate air and make you feel cooler even in an air-conditioned house