With super heated air camped over the region there have been at least five deaths in Maryland because of heat-related health problems. With proper care, heat-related health problems can be avoided.
The most prevalent of health problems from excessive heat are cramps. Those who suffer cramps experience severe pain, most often in the muscles of the calves or hamstrings in the legs. Cramps seem to be connected to heat, dehydration along with poor conditioning. Taking in water, resting and getting out of the heat are the best way to deal with heat cramps.
Heat exhaustion can be more serious, but is also related to excessive heat and dehydration. Symptoms include a pale complexion, feeling dizzy, nausea, vomiting and fainting. Another symptom is a temporary increase in body temperature, which may approach 102 degrees. This is not a fever in the common sense of the word.
People who experience heat exhaustion should rest and drink plenty of water, but more severe cases should be treated with ice packs in a cool environment until the body’s temperature returns to normal. This is especially true for children. Medical attention should be sought in the severe cases where doctors may administer an IV to raise the body’s electrolyte levels.
Heat stroke is the most severe form of heat illness and can be fatal, if not treated immediately. Symptoms include warm, flushed skin, and the absence of perspiration, a very high temperature – 106 degrees F or higher. Those that suffer from heat stroke may demonstrate dementia, lapse into unconsciousness or have seizures.
Heat stroke victims need to be treated by medical professionals immediately. They should have their body temperature lowered as fast as is possible in order to avoid serious long-term effects, including the shut down of over-heated organs throughout the body.
The best way to prevent heat-related illnesses is to stay hydrated, which helps the body handle excess or extreme heat through its natural air conditioning system of perspiration. Perspiration wets the skin, which in turn evaporates, removing heat with the wetness.
Dehydration make it more difficult for the body to cool. Because those suffering from dehydration do not perspire, the body’s reaction is to keep blood away from the skin which serves to maintain core blood pressure.
The best fluid to drink is water. It is important use caution on how much physical activity is undertaken in severely hot weather. It is best to wear light, comfortable clothing that allows for natural evaporation in the heat as well.
