SRC Health Department Offers tips to "Beat the heat"

Wednesday, 03 August 2011 15:36 Last Updated on Wednesday, 03 August 2011 15:44 Written by Santa Rosa Health Department

With temperatures in our area expected to be over 100 degrees for the next several days, the Santa Rosa County Health Department urges residents and visitors to know the warning signs of heat-related illnesses and the steps to take to help prevent them.

HEAT EXHAUSTION

Heat exhaustion is a form of heat-related illness that can develop after several days of exposure to high temperatures and inadequate or unbalanced replacement of fluids. Those who are most vulnerable to heat exhaustion are the elderly, infants and small children, individuals with medical conditions such as high blood pressure, and those working or exercising in a hot environment.

Warning signs of heat exhaustion vary, but may include:

Heavy sweating
Paleness
Muscle cramps
Tiredness
Weakness
Dizziness
Headache
Nausea or vomiting
Fainting
Moist and cool skin
Fast and weak pulse
Fast and shallow breathing

TIPS FOR PREVENTING HEAT-RELATED ILLNESS

Drink plenty of fluids that don’t contain alcohol or large amounts of sugar
Don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink
Limit outside activity to morning and evening hours
Rest often in shady areas, or remain inside in an air conditioned space
Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat
Don’t forget to protect your eyes and skin by wearing sunglasses and sunscreen (sunscreens with SPF 15 that protect against both UVA and UVB rays are the most effective)

IF HEAT EXHAUSTION IS SUSPECTED

Cooling measures that may be effective include

Drinking cool, non-alcoholic beverages as directed by a physician
Resting in an air-conditioned environment
Taking a cool shower, bath or sponge bath

HEAT STROKE

Left untreated, heat exhaustion may progress to heat stroke, which occurs when the body becomes unable to control its temperature. Seek medical attention immediately if any of these symptoms are present: