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Heat Stress Syndromes - 2003
It is hard to believe that the “dog
days” of summer are fast approaching. As the mercury rises
and our summer fun begins, heat related illnesses such as
heat exhaustion or heat stroke might occur.
Heat stress syndromes, such as heat
exhaustion and stroke, often occur during the first days of
a heat wave. These syndromes generally occur when the
temperature outside is greater than 90 degrees F, with a
relative humidity greater than 60%. Unfortunately, those
who are affected most by the heat tend to be the very young
and the very old.
Because of their size and a limited
ability to sweat, children are at greater risk for
heat-related illnesses. They can’t adapt to higher
temperatures as well as adults can so parents and coaches
should take measures to prevent heat injury during the next
several months.
Heat exhaustion is far more common than
heat stroke and can rapidly occur when exposed to high
temperatures and humidity. The basic problem is a result of
losing fluids and electrolytes such as sodium and water
through the process of sweating. Water depletion is
especially common in the elderly and in those taking
medications such as diuretics. Physicians who have their
patients on medications such as diuretics need to monitor
their patients closely---adjusting their medications
appropriately.
People with heat exhaustion often
complain of overwhelming fatigue, weakness and dizziness.
They may have nausea and vomiting as well as complain of a
headache and muscle aches. They sweat profusely and crave
water. Their body temperature is elevated but usually less
then 103 degrees F.
If you experience these symptoms, find
an air-conditioned room and remove all unnecessary clothing
while wetting yourself down. It may be difficult to replace
the fluids you have lost if you are nauseated and vomiting.
You may need to pay a visit to your physician or the
emergency room in order to replace the fluids and
electrolytes lost if the nausea and vomiting persist.
Heat stroke is far more serious and
will require emergency treatment in order to rapidly cool
the body and replace lost fluids. It occurs when the bodies
own ability to regulate body heat has malfunctioned
resulting in a rise in body temperature. These patients
will be confused, disoriented and may lose consciousness.
Their skin is usually dry, hot and flushed and their body
temperature is often greater than 105 degrees F. People
with diseases such as diabetes, heart disease or alcoholism
seem to be more prone to heat stroke and should take extra
care of themselves during these hot and humid days.
Common sense is the best prevention
during a heat wave. You should allow yourself to get use to
the hot weather by properly conditioning yourself while
modifying your activity level. Dress appropriately with
loose-fitting, open weave, light-colored clothing. Try to
keep as much skin exposure as possible while using proper
sun block in order to protect your skin from damaging
sunrays.
The most important factor in
preventing heat stress is to make sure that you have
adequate fluid replacement. Try to avoid dehydration during
your outdoor activity or exercise by drinking at least 8 oz.
of fluid every 15 minutes. Sport drinks such as Gatorade or
Allsport are wonderful sources of fluid replacement and may
replace your electrolytes lost in the process of sweating.
We can withstand the high temperatures associated with a
heat wave as long as Sweating continues and water and sodium
are replaced.
Content
of articles can only be used with writer attribution to Dr.
Kevin Weiland.
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