How Can Extreme Heat Take It's Toll On Us, And What Can We Do About It?
High temperatures can take a toll on our bodies and minds, leaving us feeling sluggish and exhausted.
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can have serious consequences, so it’s important to know what to look for and how to stay safe in extreme heat. Heat exhaustion is the body’s response to an excessive loss of the water and salt contained in sweat. Symptoms include heavy sweating, rapid heartbeat, muscle cramps, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, and headache.
It’s important to remember that heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, a condition that can be life-threatening. To prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke, it’s essential to stay hydrated and limit outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day. Wearing loose, light-colored clothing can help keep you cool, as will avoiding caffeine and alcohol.
Taking frequent breaks and seeking shade are also important. If you’re feeling unwell, be sure to move to a cooler area, remain hydrated, and seek medical attention if needed. It’s also important to be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke in others, especially the elderly and young children. If someone is exhibiting signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, it’s essential to move them to a cooler area, give them water (or an electrolyte-replenishing drink if available), and seek medical help if needed.
By taking precautions and being aware of the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, we can protect ourselves and those around us from the dangers of extreme heat.
Sources:
American Red Cross. (2020). Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke. Retrieved from https://www.redcross.org/about-us/our-work/disaster-relief/heat-safety.html Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020).
Prevention and Treatment of Heat-Related Illness. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/heat_guide.html
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