Heat Exhaustion

We all look forward to sunny days and warmer weather each year and plan activities such as exercise, gardening, car washing, and lawn mowing when the weather is better. But, we may not be prepared when we get out in the sunny weather for the potential to develop heat exhaustion. We all think we know our limits and take good care of ourselves, but heat exhaustion can be life threatening and can come on quickly without warning. Here are some things to know this year about preventing heat exhaustion, also called heat stroke.
Heat exhaustion is characterized by extreme body heat and sweating. A person can develop a rapid heartbeat, dizziness, confusion and blurred vision. All of these symptoms if not treated immediately can lead to fainting and collapse.
Here are some ways to prevent heat exhaustion:
· Heat exhaustion is caused by rapid dehydration or fluid loss. When we get out in the heat and the sun, we tend to sweat and lose body fluids. We need to replenish the fluids frequently with water, or even energy drinks without caffeine that contain sodium and potassium. Water is best.
· Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages. Alcohol has a drying effect and can increase dehydration.
If you find yourself experiencing dehydration and heat exhaustion, here are some things you need to do very quickly:
· Go inside, or into the shade if you are not close to a building. Yell for help if you are outside.
· You need to cool down right away; wet a large towel with cool water if you are at home and place it over your head, shoulders and arms. Wet towels can also be placed under your arms. If someone is with you, have them call for emergency personnel, or now make the call yourself.
· Drink cool fluids, and continue to drink fluids until you feel better. You will need at least 2 liters or 2 quarts to equalize and feel better.
The emergency personnel can give you further advice as you continue the cooling process. We are all tough, but we don’t often know where the boundary lines of danger lie when a new season of sunny weather begins. Try to plan vigorous activities before the noonday sun and when the heat of the day between noon and five o’clock are at their peak.