Words to the wise regarding hot weather

Heat-related illnesses are serious business. In addition to potentially fatal heat stroke, heat rash and heat cramps are other possible illnesses brought on by exposure to extreme temperatures.

Infants, children, pets, athletes, outdoor workers and the elderly are especially vulnerable to heat-related illness.

During the current heat wave, Walton County Sheriff's supervisors and watch commanders are reminding the deputies and the public to be extremely careful when it comes to heat. Even the first symptoms of heat exhaustion like dizziness and nausea can make it too late for some to seek help. If heat exhaustion is untreated it could lead to heat stroke.

Heat stroke is a true medical emergency that can be fatal if not properly and promptly treated. Symptoms of heat stroke can sometimes mimic those of heart attacks or other conditions. Anyone experiencing a heat-related emergency should call 911 for assistance.

Treatment of heat exhaustion:

If you experience any of the signs of heat exhaustion while outside you need to get in the shade or to an air conditioned environment, take a cool shower or bath, drink cool fluids such a water, apply ice to the body and rest.

TREATING HEAT STROKE

Victims of heat stroke must receive immediate treatment to avoid permanent organ damage. First and foremost, cool the victim.

Get the victim to a shady area, remove clothing, apply cool or tepid water to the skin. For example, you can spray the victim with cool water from a garden hose, fan the victim to promote sweating and evaporation, and place ice packs under armpits and groins.

Monitor body temperature with a thermometer and continue cooling efforts until the body temperature drops to 101-102 degrees.

Always notify emergency services (911) immediately. If their arrival is delayed, they can give you further instructions for treatment of the victim.

PREVENTION

The most important measures to prevent heat strokes are to avoid becoming dehydrated and to avoid vigorous physical activities in hot and humid weather.

If you have to perform physical activities in hot weather, drink plenty of fluids (such as water and sports drinks), but avoid alcohol, coffee and tea which may lead to dehydration.

Your body will need replenishment of electrolytes (such as sodium) as well as fluids if you sweat excessively or perform vigorous activity in the sunlight for prolonged periods.

Take frequent breaks to hydrate yourself. Wear hats and light-colored, lightweight, loose clothes.

Common symptoms  --  heat exhaustion

Individuals will exhibit varying symptoms and signs of heat related illnesses.

-Dizziness,

-Excessive sweating,

-Nausea,

-Paleness,

-Muscle cramps,

-Weakness,

-Headache

-Fainting

HEAT STROKE

-High body temperature

-The absence of sweating, with hot red or flushed dry skin

-Rapid pulse

-Difficulty breathing

-Strange behavior

-Hallucinations

-Confusion

-Agitation

-Disorientation

Source:  MedicineNet.com