NEW BEDFORD, Mass. — Hot weather and humidity raise body temperature and make it difficult for the body to cool down, increasing the risk of heat-related illness. While there are many factors and certain groups are more at risk, heat exhaustion is mostly preventable.
“People who are particularly at risk and should be closely monitored for signs of heat-related illness are those who work outdoors, especially jobs that require physical labor, infants, young children, the elderly and those with chronic illnesses,” said Sam Shen, MD, Associate Director of the St. Luke’s Hospital Emergency Department. “We tend to see more people coming into the ERs when the heat comes on quickly because they have not adjusted their lifestyle to the rising temperature.
“It is important to listen to the signs of your body and take the proper precautions especially if you at a high risk,” Dr. Shen said.
Dr. Shen said in addition to those mentioned above, people with heart or circulatory problems, skin disorders and the obese are at a higher risk for heat-related illnesses. People using certain medications, excessive use of alcohol or drug abusers can also be affected.
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention suggests these measures for preventing heat related illnesses:
Stay indoors as much as possible; use fans or air conditioners to cool the air. Air-conditioning is the No. 1 protective factor in preventing heat-related illness and death. Those whose homes are not air-conditioned should seek out air-conditioned public facilities.
Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
Slow down and avoid strenuous activity.
Avoid too much sun and wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 if you are going to be in the sun for more than 10 minutes — sunburn decreases the bodies ability to cool down.
Plan outdoor games and activities for early morning or evening.
Avoid extreme temperature changes.
Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing that will cover as much skin as possible, but also provide proper ventilation.
Protect face and head by wearing a wide brimmed hat.
Drink plenty of cool fluids, regardless of activity level and even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcoholic and high-sugar beverages — they actually dehydrate — as well as extremely cold drinks, which can cause cramps. During heavy exercise in a hot environment, drink two to four glasses (16-32 ounces) of cool fluids each hour.
Source: www.mass.gov/dph/seasonal/sumheat.htm
www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/heat_guide.asp
and i though i was the only one to see it this way