Staying Well In The Heat of SummerLate Summer brings sunshine and high temperatures, smart preparation is key to maintaining good health and enjoying the season. HeatHeat index: Did you know that exposure to full sun can increase the heat index by 15 degrees?
Heat cramps: Heat cramps are muscular pains and spasms due to heavy exertion and are an
early signal that the body is having trouble coping with the heat.
Heat Exhaustion: Exercise or work in a hot, humid place can cause blood flow to decrease to the vital organs, which can cause mild shock and heat stroke if left untreated.
Heat stroke/Sun stroke: Heat stroke can be life-threatening. The body temperature can rise so high that brain damage and death may result if the body is not cooled quickly.
Treatment of Heat EmergenciesHeat cramps: Find a cooler place to rest in a comfortable position. Drink cool water every fifteen minutes. Do not drink alcohol or caffeinated drinks, they can make conditions worse.
Heat exhaustion: Get out of the heat and into a cooler place. Remove tight clothing and apply
cool, wet towels. To help lower body temperature, drink half glasses of cool water every fifteen minutes. Do not drink alcohol or caffeinated drinks. Rest, and watch carefully for changes in condition.
Heat stroke: Heat stroke is a life-threatening situation. Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number. Move to a cooler place and if possible into a cool bath, or wrap wet sheets around the body and fan it. Watch for signals of breathing problems. Keep the person lying down and continue to cool the body any way you can. If the victim refuses water or is vomiting or there are changes in the level of consciousness, do not give them anything to eat or drink.
Our dedicated Home Health Care professionals are trained to keep a watchful eye on their patient’s conditions while also observing their environment for factors that may impact their patient’s health. |
