How do we stay healthy in the heat?
Take these precautions to minimize your risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke:
- Listen to the weather forecast. If there is an extreme heat warning then stay indoors. If high heat is forecast then make sure you plan to minimize the time outdoors. Go out in the early morning or in the evening.
- If your kids must be outside, make sure they rest in the shade frequently and get them to drink water, fruit juice or sports drinks often- even if they are not thirsty. Kids should drink two to four glasses of liquid every hour on really hot days.
- Avoid drinks with caffeine or large amounts of sugar because they actually cause us to lose fluid.
- Make sure the kids are wearing hats, sunglasses, sunscreen and very light clothing that breathes.
- Do not take babies out if there is an extreme heat warning. On hot days, make sure babies are fully shaded with clothing, hats and umbrellas.
- If you don't have air conditioning in your home, have the family take frequent cool showers and take trips to a mall with air conditioning. Get the kids to wet their hands and the backs of their necks often. Keep your shades drawn and the windows open. Do not use the oven or lights during the day.
What is heat exhaustion?
Heat exhaustion a form of hyperthermia. It is the result of spending too much time in the heat without drinking enough water.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion:
- pale and pasty skin
- heavy sweating
- weakness and tiredness
- muscle cramps
- dizziness
- nausea
- vomiting
- fainting
- increased temperature (not quite a fever)
How to treat heat exhaustion:
- get victim into shade or a cool environment immediately
- apply ice packs if you have them
- give them small sips of water (do not let them drink quickly)
- give them something to eat
What is heat stroke (or sun stroke)?
Heat stroke is the most serious of heat-related illnesses. If not treated, victims can die. It is a form of hyperthermia that is more severe than heat exhaustion. Usually, we are able to cool our bodies by sweat evaporation and heat radiation through the skin. But during times of extreme heat, high humidity and dehydration, our bodies can't dissipate the heat fast enough and the body temperature rises.
Symptoms of heat stroke:
*If your child has the following symptoms call an ambulance. This is an extreme emergency!
- victim has stopped sweating and the skin is very red, hot and dry
- high temperature (103° F or 39.4° C or higher)
- rapid pulse
- shallow, quick breathing
- very bad headache (throbbing)
- dizziness, nausea, and confusion
- hallucinations
- may be unconscious or in a coma.
How to treat heat stroke:
- call 911 and get help immediately
- While you are waiting for an ambulance, take the child to a cool environment, remove their clothing and sponge with cool water or spray lightly with a garden hose.
