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Hyperthermia: A Summer Threat
 
Hyperthermia is the term for heat-related illnesses that occur when the body is too hot to function properly. Under normal conditions, once air temperature has reached 95 degrees, the body begins to cool itself down by perspiring.
 
When the temperature stays at or above 95 for several consecutive days, perspiring may not be enough to cool the body adequately. As body temperature increases, it loses salt and water through perspiration. This causes weakness and fatigue.
Weakness and fatigue are warnings that the body needs help in cooling itself down. THESE ARE WARNING YOU SHOULD HEED!
.
  • Heat Cramps are usually caused by too much physical activity in hot weather. Symptoms include weakness, muscle cramps, heavy sweating, and feeling sick to the stomach. If you get these symptoms, go to a cool place, lie down and rest, gently massage the cramped muscles, and drink one half of a glass of cool water every fifteen minutes. Contact your doctor to make sure that you don't need further medical treatment.
  • Heat Exhaustion is your body's way of telling you to slow down and take it easy and cool off. Symptoms of heat exhaustion are: heavy sweating, feeling thirsty, very tired, and possibly sick to the stomach; being unable to concentrate or being delirious; skin is cool and moist, and body temperature is normal or slightly below normal. Contact your doctor immediately.
  • Heat Stroke is a very serious medical emergency. It can result in death if not treated quickly. Symptoms include: faintness, dizziness, staggering, severe headache, confusion, diarrhea, feeling sick to the stomach, weak and rapid pulse; dry, hot red skin, high body temperature ( maybe as high as 106); and unconsciousness. Call 911 immediately for paramedics or an ambulance.
Medical Warning
Do not stop taking taking your medication without your doctor's approval. Contact your doctor to discuss your particular condition and the effect the heat may have on your medications. Some medicines can reduce sweating and slow down the body's natural ability to cool itself. Because of these heat-related side effects, you may need to take special precautions to avoid heat illnesses.
 
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