Mercury Rising

     The collective sigh at the end of winter is music to most ears and though the winter duds are boxed for yet another season we should not rest on our laurels. While a day at the beach is the reward for many who toil through the year, the same heat that is welcome and so relaxing at the shore can cause heat related illness that can sicken and in some cases even kill.

     Heat exhaustion is caused by exposure to high temperatures and inadequate or unbalanced replacement of fluids. Those most prone to heat exhaustion are the elderly, those with high blood pressure, and people working or exercising in a hot environment. Warning signs of heat exhaustion include: heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, and fainting. If heat exhaustion is untreated, it may lead to heat stroke which is a medical emergency.

     If heat exhaustion is suspected, help the victim to cool off and if the symptoms worsen or last longer than one hour, seek medical attention. Cooling methods that may be effective include: rest, an air conditioned environment, administering cool, non-alcoholic beverages, or a cool shower.

     Medical Author Melissa Conrad Stoppler, M.D. offers the following pointers for preventing heat exhaustion:

1. Wear loose fitting cotton clothing of a light color.
2. Combat dehydration by drinking plenty of water along with sport drinks or other sources of electrolytes.
3. Avoid caffeine and alcohol as these promote dehydration.
4. Instead of hot foods, try light summer fare including frequent small meals or snacks containing fruit or low fat dairy products.

     Cooling devices such as vests and hard hat inserts are available from safety companies and I have found that they do provide some relief from the heat. They can be found easily online and are definitely worth a try. Have a safe and pleasant summer. Keep cool!

THINK!