Stay Safe And Healthy This Summer

After a long, cold winter, the wait is over. Summer is finally here!

Even though many of us enjoy summertime, it’s important to understand the effects of the rising temperature. Too much exposure to the heat can lead to a serious illness called heat stroke. When the temperature soars, everyone, and especially elders, needs to take the appropriate safety precautions to prevent this critical emergency.

What is heat stroke? Heat stroke is a severe illness caused by excessive exposure to heat. A person suffers heat stroke when their body becomes overheated and is unable to produce enough sweat to cool down. If the body cannot cool itself, a person’s internal temperature can rise to dangerously high levels.

Symptoms of heat stroke include dizziness, headache, and fatigue. Other cases of heat stroke may even cause hallucinations, a rapid heartbeat, or loss of consciousness. When suffering from heat stroke, a person needs to be treated immediately to prevent permanent damage to their body.

After emergency help has been contacted, the individual should lie down indoors in a cool area. Ice packs and a cold washcloth should be applied to the person’s skin until emergency assistance has arrived. If ice packs are not accessible, fanning the person can stimulate sweating and lower the body temperature.

Although heat stroke can be treated, taking preventive measures is the best defense. Regardless of activity level, individuals should drink plenty of water or sports drinks throughout the day. Water should be consumed all day and foods with high water content, such as fruits and vegetables, should be eaten. To avoid excessive heat, more time should be spent indoors in air-conditioned rooms. If air conditioning isn’t available, windows should be left open. Elders should take a cool shower or bath to cool down.

Going to be outside for the day? Be sure to wear sunglasses, a hat, or light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. When resting, stay in well-shaded areas. If possible, try to schedule any outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day—the morning and evening hours. Avoiding the mid-day hours limits the possibility of heat stroke and sunburn.

Without question, summer can be a fun time. Protect yourself and your loved ones from heat stroke by making careful, intelligent decisions. Being cautious will keep the summer a safe and enjoyable time for all.

Sources:
Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
University of Maryland Medical Center