Stay Safe This Summer — Know How to Cool a Heat Emergency
Every summer, you hear stories of people overcome
by heat-related illnesses. Factors such as
humidity, medication, exertion or dehydration
can throw off
the body's natural cooling
system and lead to health
problems, according to
Al Sacchetti, M.D., Chief
of Emergency Medicine
at Our Lady of Lourdes
Medical Center.
"Simple tips like drinking
lots of fluids and seeking
respite from the heat can
help prevent emergencies,"
said Larry Segal, D.O., Chief
of Emergency Medicine at
Lourdes Medical Center of
Burlington County. "It also is important to know the different
types of heat illnesses and warning signs so you can act
fast to avoid serious complications or death."
Heat Cramps
Heat cramps are painful spasms that target the stomach,
arms or legs, said Dr. Sacchetti. "They occur when
muscles are deprived of salt, which is often lost through
excessive sweating, such as during a workout."
Follow these steps if you have heat cramps:
- Stop activity immediately.
- Drink clear juice, a sports beverage, or 16 ounces of water mixed with a teaspoon of salt.
- Avoid strenuous activity and get medical attention if cramps do not go away within an hour.
- Seek immediate help if you are on a low-sodium diet or have heart problems.
Heat exhaustion feels like the flu. It can occur suddenly, after several days of continuous heat exposure or as a result of dehydration, said Dr. Segal. Seniors, young children or individuals who work outdoors are at risk. Symptoms include:
- irritability or headache;
- fatigue and weakness;
- nausea or vomiting;
- heavy sweating or intense thirst.
Heat stroke is a true medical emergency that can be fatal, said Dr. Sacchetti. Symptoms include:
- high body temperature;
- the absence of sweating, with hot red or flushed dry skin;
- rapid pulse and trouble breathing;
- confusion, agitation or disorientation;
- seizures.
