Summer is here and so is the heat.\u00a0 While flu season is behind us, there are still health concerns in the summertime. So next time you\u2019re enjoying the outdoors, remember the risk of overexposure to heat and a heat related illness.\u00a0 Being overheated can become a life threatening situation if it is ignored.<\/p>\n
Stay Hydrated<\/strong> Dehydration occurs when a person does not keep a proper fluid balance.\u00a0 Often a person needs to increase water intake, but it is also important to make sure that low-sugar electrolyte drinks are consumed as well.\u00a0 Excessive sweating can cause loss of sodium, leading to an imbalance in the body\u2019s electrolytes.\u00a0 This imbalance can cause muscle cramps, weakness, or it can affect the heart. Fluids with caffeine and alcohol do not help a person rehydrate and can contribute to dehydration.<\/p>\n Heat Related Illness<\/strong> The very old and very young, people with chronic health issues and people who take certain medications are at higher risk for a heat related illness.\u00a0 Others at risk include those who are involved in strenuous activates in the heat, or those who are in the heat for prolonged periods of time without properly hydrating or cooling themselves.<\/p>\n
\nThis time of year, it is important to stay hydrated. Complications from not drinking enough water through the day, while staying out in direct heat, can vary from something minor to something that can become life threatening. It\u2019s important to remember that persons who stay indoors, but do not have a fan or air conditioning, are also at risk for heat related illnesses.<\/p>\n
\nHeat related illnesses can be anything from mild heat exhaustion to heat stroke. Symptoms can vary widely, and treatments usually focus on hydration and cooling a person down. While many symptoms can be caused by other health problems or illnesses, the following can be from a heat related illness:
\n\u2022\u00a0Muscle cramps or weakness
\n\u2022\u00a0Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
\n\u2022\u00a0Feeling light headed, dizzy, passing out, or decreased consciousness
\n\u2022\u00a0Heart racing\/elevated heart rate
\n\u2022\u00a0Headache
\n\u2022\u00a0Skin may be pale and sweaty or it may be hot and dry (depends on severity)
\n\u2022\u00a0Drop in blood pressure
\n\u2022\u00a0Faster breathing
\n\u2022\u00a0Decreased urination
\n\u2022\u00a0Seizures
\n\u2022\u00a0Temperature elevated, severe if over 104.9<\/p>\n