Watch out for Heat Stroke

Now that we've reached August the temperature climbs often over 90 degrees and you have to be careful of the amount of time you spend outdoors in the sun and heat. Without proper precautions you could easily become dehydrated and in a worse case scenario experience heat stroke, which can be life threatening if left untreated.

Heat Stroke, the most severe form of heat illness, is the result of long, extreme exposure to the sun in which a person does not sweat enough to lower their body temperature.  Those who are at risk for heat stroke are the elderly, infants, people who work outdoors, and those on certain types of medications, such as diuretics, heart and blood pressure drugs, beta blockers, sedatives, and tranquilizers.

Under normal circumstances the body normally cools itself through sweating but when the body is overexposed to heat and sun, dehydration begins if fluid is not replaced.

The initial signs of dehydration include thirst, decrease urination, dry skin, fatigue, lightheadedness, dizziness, confusion, dry mucus membranes, increased heart rate and breathing. Since children are extremely active they can dehydrate very quickly and will exhibit the above symptoms as well as dry mouth, no tears when crying, no wet diapers for more than 3 hours, listlessness, high fever and irritability.

Heat stroke becomes life threatening when the body temperature reaches 104 degrees or higher. When a person experiences heat stroke they will have a lack of sweating, flushed skin which may turn red as your body temperature increases, rapid breathing, headache, and muscle weakness. These symptoms can progress to hallucinations, difficulty speaking or comprehending, loss of consciousness, seizures and they can eventually go into a coma.

If you find someone experiencing these symptoms call 911 because heat stroke can cause permanent damage or death. While waiting for help get the person indoors in a cool area. Remove all clothing and apply cool water to the skin preferably in front of a fan to promote sweating. Apply ice packs to the groin and armpits to help lower the core temperature. Have the person lie down in a cool area with their feet slightly elevated.

Heat stroke while dangerous is preventable. During the summer heat drink plenty of fluids, water and sports drinks. Caffeine and alcohol will increase dehydration so limit your intake. For infants Pedialyte is a good choice for fluid replacement. Try to avoid being outside during the hottest times between the hours of 10am and 4pm. Wear hats, sunglasses and carry an umbrella to provide shade. Wear light colored clothes such as cotton. Avoid strenuous physical activity in hot and humid weather. Pace yourself when being outdoors.

When taking care of ourselves also remember to take care of your pets who sport those fur coats in the winter. Make sure your dogs and cats have plenty of fresh cool water to drink and keep them in shaded areas. They too can experience heat exhaustion, dehydration and heat stroke.