Watch out for heat stroke
Come on, summer lovers, admit it: Triple digits is too much, even for you.
With temperatures hovering near 100, just about anyone is susceptible to heat stroke. It can happen faster than you may think, especially without adequate hydration (sorry, beer and margaritas don’t count).
So if you’re outdoors for sun and fun, please be careful.
According to Mayoclinic.com and the National Institutes of Health, heat stroke (a.k.a. sun stroke) and its predecessor, heat exhaustion, can result from prolonged exposure to high temperatures — with or without physical activity. It can happen at temperatures lower than today’s, varying by individual and activity level. If left untreated, heat stroke can damage the brain, heart, kidneys and muscles.
Causes of heatstroke include:
Overdressing (but don’t skip the hat). Too much or too thick clothing may prevent sweat from evaporating easily and cooling the body. That needn’t mean a sunburn; protect skin from sun damage with thin, breathable fabrics.
Drinking alcohol. It negatively affects the body’s ability to regulate temperature.
Dehydration. The body needs enough water to replenish fluids lost through sweat.
Symptoms of heat-related illness include:
1. Body temperature of 103 or higher (most people don’t carry a thermometer, so look for a flushed face and check the forehead and back of the hand)
2. Confusion, agitation, slurred speech, delirium, seizures, or fainting
3. Skin is flushed or red, hot or dry to the touch (non-exertional heatstroke) or clammy (exertional, i.e., during physical activity)
4. Nausea or vomiting
5. Pulse too fast or too slow
6. Headache
Anyone can develop heat stroke, but the central nervous systems of young children and older seniors are more vulnerable to temperature changes. Exertion also increases risk; those playing sports or in military training are commonly among summer heat stroke sufferers.
Others at higher risk include those without air conditioning (fans feel good but are less effective) or taking certain medications such as vasoconstrictors, betablockers, diuretics, and antidepressants. People who are obese or sedentary are also more susceptible.
If heat stroke is suspected, seek immediate medical help. Meanwhile, move the overheated person indoors, remove excess clothing, and cool with whatever means available — a tub, shower or garden hose with cool water, or cold packs and wet towels on the head, neck, armpits and groin area.
For more information, search heat-related illness at Mayoclinic.com and CDC.gov.
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Sholeh Patrick is a columnist for the Hagadone News Network dreaming of October. Contact her at Sholeh@cdapress.com.