As temperatures rise during the summer months, heat-related injuries and illnesses become more common. Taking precautions can prevent from the heat-related sicknesses below.
Heat Rash - inflammation of the skin around friction points. This may occur in hot and humid environments where the skin is constantly wet with perspiration. Resting in a cool, dry place to allow the skin to dry can help prevent heat rash.
Heat Cramps - painful muscle spasms. These occur when workers drink sufficient water but don't replenish lost electrolytes. Cramps can be prevented by drinking electrolyte replacement drinks before and during strenuous activity.
Heat Exhaustion - extreme weakness, fatigue, nausea or headache. An affected person has clammy skin, a pale or flushed complexion and elevated body temperature. This results from fluid loss due to perspiration or not drinking enough fluids. If someone is affected, get the person out of the sun and loosen clothing. Encourage drinking small amounts of liquid slowly. They may require professional medical treatment.
Heat Stroke - perspiration stops and the body can no longer rid itself of excess heat. Signs of heatstroke include mental confusion, delirium, loss of consciousness, convulsions or coma, a high fever, hot and dry skin that may be red blotchy or bluish. This is the most severe heat-related illness because it can be fatal if not treated properly. Heatstroke is caused by the body's failure to regulate its core temperature. If a person is suffering from heatstroke medical help should be called immediately. While waiting for help to arrive, move the person to a cool area, soak their clothing with cool water and fan vigorously to decrease body temperature.
Your body has to work in order to keep itself cool. The extra work places a load on your body and causes exhaustion. Remember to slow down, dress for the weather, wear light-colored clothing, drink plenty of water and electrolyte replacements.