Heat Stroke
Beat the Heat 
Health Tip of the Week:
A recent and current string of high temperatures have brought to mind that it is time to write about heat exhaustion. Many people are out in the hot sun, gardening, fishing, golfing, running to sport events with the family or just laying on the beach during vacation. Heat exhaustion is a condition when excessive fluid loss results in a rise in body temperature. Symptoms include, thirst, loss of appetite, headaches, dizziness, clammy skin and nausea. To prevent heat exhaustion drink plenty of water and keep an extra supply close at hand. Eat more fruits and vegetables (high water content). Electrolyte drinks, like gatorade are helpful, but better if diluted with water to cut down on the sugar. Alcohol, caffeine and smoking all dehydrate the body and contribute to heat exhaustion. Wearing a hat is also very helpful as the head's blood vessels are close to the skin and they tend to gain or lose heat quickly.
Heat Exhaustion: First Aid
Heat exhaustion is one of the heat-related syndromes, which range in severity from mild heat cramps to heat exhaustion to potentially life-threatening heatstroke.
Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion often begin suddenly, sometimes after excessive exercise, heavy perspiration and inadequate fluid intake. Signs and symptoms resemble those of shock and may include:
- Feeling faint or dizzy
- Nausea
- Heavy sweating
- Rapid, weak heartbeat
- Low blood pressure
- Cool, moist, pale skin
- Low-grade fever
- Heat cramps
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Dark-colored urine
If you suspect heat exhaustion:
- Get the person out of the sun and into a shady or air-conditioned location.
- Lay the person down and elevate the legs and feet slightly.
- Loosen or remove the person's clothing.
- Have the person drink cool water.
- Cool the person by spraying or sponging him or her with cool water and fanning.
- Monitor the person carefully. Heat exhaustion can quickly become heatstroke.
If fever greater than 102 F (38.9 C), fainting, confusion or seizures occur, dial 911 or call for emergency medical assistance.
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