Special Precautions Should be Taken When Outside In the Heat
July 31, 2006
Contact: Todd Harper
Phone: 317-630-7808
Pager: 317-310-5972
Indianapolis, July 31, 2006 – Summertime means enjoying outdoor activities and the warm weather, but prolonged exposure to the heat can turn fun in the sun into a dangerous health threat. With Indiana and much of the Midwest in the midst of a major heat wave, it is especially important to ensure extra precautions are taken to avoid a trip to the emergency room.
On average, 350 people each year die in the United States due to heat-related injuries and illnesses (According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). By taking some time to plan and prepare for a day in the heat, you can reduce your risk of becoming another statistic. Before heading out into the heat and sun this summer, make sure you know the facts about the dangers high temperatures can bring.
The National Weather Service and health professionals say drinking plenty of water and sports drinks every 15 to 20 minutes; avoiding alcohol and fluids with caffeine such as tea, coffee and cola; dressing in light-colored and lightweight clothing; and using a sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 15 or greater are great ways to stay healthy this summer. Officials also say abstaining from outdoor physical activity on very hot and humid days or waiting to participate during the cooler times of the day will better protect against heat-related health problems.
“It is important to wear light clothing, drink plenty of fluids, restrict activities to the cooler times of the day and be aware that those with multiple medical problems and the elderly are especially susceptible to heat-related illnesses,” said Dr. Rawle A. Seupaul, an emergency medicine physician at Wishard Health Services and associate professor in the IU School of Medicine.
Heat-related injuries affect thousands of Americans each year and can be serious if people do not protect themselves while outdoors. Unlike other natural hazards, heat strains the human body beyond its expected abilities. Heat cramps, the mildest form, result during or after intense exercise and sweating in high heat. Symptoms include painful cramps, especially in the legs, flushed, moist skin, mild fever (usually less than 102 degrees) and heavy sweating. The first aid response is to apply firm pressure on cramping muscles, gently massaging to relieve spasms, rest and rehydration with fluids.
A more serious problem, heat exhaustion, results from a loss of water and salt in the body from perspiration. Symptoms include muscle cramps; pale, moist skin; fever over 102 degrees; nausea; vomiting; diarrhea; headache; fatigue; weakness; anxiety; faint feeling; and heavy sweating. You should quickly respond to those with symptoms by getting them out of the sun; have them lie down and loosen their clothing; apply cool, wet cloth; and fan or move them to an air conditioned room.
Heat stroke, the most severe and fatal form, occurs when the body’s heat-regulating system is overwhelmed by excessive heat. Victims will experience hot, dry skin; fever over 104 degrees; a rapid heart rate; possible unconsciousness; loss of appetite; nausea; vomiting; headache and fatigue. Emergency medical assistance must be obtained or the victim must be taken to a hospital immediately, as a delay can be fatal. Someone experiencing a heat stroke can be moved to a cool environment and given a cool bath or sponged with cool water until help arrives.
As with any medical emergency, doctors recommend calling 911 immediately. For more information about heat-related injuries or illnesses or to find a primary care physician who can answer questions or concerns you might have, please call Health Connection at Wishard at (317) 655-2255.