|
When the sun is blistering and the humidity is making you feel soaked, we all need to guard ourselves
against hyperthermia. The two most common forms of this are heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Of the two, heat stroke is the more dangerous requiring immediate medical attention.
In simple terms, a healthy person has a steady body temperature of 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. In hot
weather or during vigorous activity, your body sweats. As the perspiration evaporates from the skin, your body is cooled. Now, if your body is challenged by long periods of intense heat, you may lose its ability to sweat thus disabling your body's natural cooling mechanism. When this happens, a person's body temperature can exceed 104 degrees. Heat stroke can be life threatening-so your reaction time is critical. Know the symptoms which include: confusion, faintness, staggering, strong and rapid pulse, and dry flushed skin. Call 9-1-1.
The elderly are at high risk of hyperthermia but believe it or not, it does not matter what age you are,
heat stroke can strike when you least expect it especially if you're dealing wtih heart or lung problems, high blood pressure, diabetes and people taking certain medications, like antidepressants are most at risk. Here are some tips to protect you from the heat:
Drink plenty of fluids, such as water and fruit juices even if you're not thirsty. Avoid caffeine and
alcoholic beverages. Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose fitting clothes, Wear a hat or use an umbrella for shade. Avoid the mid-day heat between 10 and 4p.m., Stay in areas that are cool, well- ventilated or air conditioned. Finally, avoid hot heavy meals.
Remember an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure-so don't be afraid to ask your doctor is
any of your medications put you at risk of developing a heat related illness. Awareness of summer hazards can help you better deal with the dog days of summer. |
