Tips to keep cool (part II)

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Tania Reid
  • 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
When the temperature soars and humidity rises, it's time to take precautions to avoid dangerous health consequences such as overheating, heat stroke and overexposure to the sun. 

With the 101 Critical Days of Summer in full swing vigilance is key. Always remember to watch for signs of overheating and heat stroke in those most susceptible such as seniors, children and people with chronic illnesses. 

However, everyone is at risk. According to the medical news today and the consumer energy center early, symptoms of overheating can sneak up when least expected. 

It may cause a person to feel lightheaded and weak as well as have a touch of nausea. The serious problems develop when symptoms are ignored and additional fluids are not taken right away. 

Here are the major symptoms of overheating, heat exhaustion and heat stroke and some safety tips to help you cope with health emergencies during the dog days of summer. 

Three Stages of Overheating 

1. Initially, exertion in heat or lack of water (or loss of water and salt from heavy sweating) will cause cramps; painful spasms that usually center in the legs, but can also occur in the abdomen and arms. (A note regarding "thirst": By the time your body tells you that you are thirsty, you're already mildly dehydrated.)
Also, persons poorly hydrated, or poorly acclimatized to heat, or standing for long periods (or who stop, stand abruptly after working, exercising) in the heat, may feel suddenly weak and dizzy, or may actually faint! 

Should you get cramps, or suddenly feel weak or dizzy, stop what you are doing, rest in a cool area, and drink clear juice or a sports beverage. With shade and rest, faintness or dizziness should subside promptly. If cramps persist for more than an hour, see a doctor. 

2. Heat exhaustion comes next. Your body temperature is still normal, but your skin is cold and clammy, you're thirsty, become uncoordinated and feel dizzy. You may feel faint, and your heartbeat may be rapid. You must immediately be rehydrated with water, salt and minerals. If these symptoms persist even after you're cooled down, see a doctor. Only let persons exhibiting these symptoms have water or sports drink if they are fully conscious and can protect their own airway, as nausea and vomiting are also signs of heat-related illness.

3. Finally, there is heat stroke. If you've let things get to this stage, you're in serious trouble. As your condition deteriorates, your body actually stops sweating - so beware of dry, hot red skin. Your body temperature is above 103 degrees Fahrenheit, your skin is dry and flushed, the pulse is strong and rapid, the person's mental state is impaired, and a coma is likely. At this stage immediate treatment is required.
If you see someone with these symptoms, call for an ambulance. While awaiting its arrival, get the victim out of the heat. Loosen or remove clothing, wrap the person in wet towels or clothing, and apply ice packs around the neck, the groin and under the arms and knees (where the blood flow is greatest and closest to the surface). Do not allow oral hydration if mental impairment is observed and it is usually present in this condition. 
The best defense is prevention. 

Here are some precautions you can take... 

· Wear light weight, light-colored loose-fitting clothing.
· Apply sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) rating of at least "SPF 15" to exposed portions of the body
· Limit exposure during the hottest hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
· If possible, avoid strenuous work or exercise outside.
· Take advantage of shade in the environment or wear a wide-brimmed hat.
· Stay in air-conditioned areas or use cooling fans to speed sweat evaporation. 

The primary cause of overheating and heat exhaustion is dehydration and a loss of electrolytes such as sodium. Dress appropriately, apply sunscreen, avoid strenuous work or exercise between the hottest hours. Generally, try to stay well-hydrated and take in extra salt (for those of you who can use salt). 

Drink water or a sports beverage even though you don't feel like it - you can't count on your thirst mechanism to prompt you. So follow these tips to stay cool and safe during these 101 Critical Days of Summer.