Alabama summers provide endless outdoor recreational activities — along with seemingly endless heat. Temperatures have already climbed into the triple digits this summer, with the humidity making it feel even hotter. Rising temperatures are not only uncomfortable; they can be outright dangerous. Read on to learn more about the different types of heat-related injuries and how to avoid them this summer.
Heat Exhaustion vs. Heat Stroke
It can be all too easy to ignore the summer heat when you’re enjoying the outdoors, but it’s crucial to be aware of rising temperatures, especially for those at highest risk.
“Extremes of age, those with multiple medical problems, and those who have to be outside for extended periods of time are generally the highest risk for heat-related injuries,” says Huntsville Hospital’s ER Medical Director, Daniel T. Neuberger, MD.
Heat exhaustion generally precedes heat stroke. Common signs of heat exhaustion include headache, dizziness or fainting, heavy sweating, nausea, and a rapid pulse. Without prompt treatment, heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke, a life-threatening condition.
Heat stroke is the most serious form of heat injury, and occurs when your body temperature rises to 104 degrees F (40 degrees C) or higher. Symptoms of heat stroke include dry, hot skin, confusion or delirium, nausea, a rapid heart rate, and possible loss of consciousness.
It’s important to pay attention to your body and recognize these symptoms as possible indicators of heat-related injuries.
“People frequently try to push through early symptoms, which is why these injuries are often underdiagnosed and undertreated,” says Neuberger. “This can lead to more significant illness– many don’t realize the many complications of heat-related illness, such as kidney dysfunction, abnormal heart rhythms, and seizures.”
How To Protect Yourself
The symptoms and complications from heat exhaustion and heat stroke can be scary– but thankfully, they are also avoidable. When enjoying the outdoors this summer, remember the following:
- Drink plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated will help your body maintain its temperature while helping you sweat.
- Wear lightweight clothing and protect against sunburn. Loose-fitting clothing allows your body to cool properly. Additionally, sunburn affects your body’s ability to properly cool itself, so wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
- Avoid the outdoors in the hottest parts of the day. Enjoy the outdoors in the cooler parts of the day, such as morning or evening. If you can’t avoid the midday heat, remember to rest frequently in a cool spot.
If you think a person may be experiencing heat stroke, it’s important to seek immediate medical help. Call 911 or your local emergency services number, and take immediate action to cool the overheated person with water and shade.
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