After the long, cold winters experienced in the northern hemisphere, the arrival of summer is anticipated with pleasure. The warm weather beckons many outdoors to engage in work projects, sports, and other activities which were impossible earlier in the year because of frigid temperatures and snow-covered landscapes.
However, we must be aware that summer presents seasonal health hazards of its own. One of the more common is heat exhaustion. Symptoms should be recognized and treated before the victim progresses to the much more serious malady: heat stroke.
Heat exhaustion is caused by excessive heat coupled with loss of water and salt (electrolytes) from the body. Fluid depletion results from excessive sweating and perhaps also from diarrhea suffered during a bout of heat cramps.
Babies, children, the elderly, and those with chronic medical problems are most susceptible to ill effects from prolonged exposure to warm temperatures. All family members should be made aware of the symptoms of heat exhaustion, so they can monitor themselves and their loved ones during seasonal heat waves. Here are the symptoms to watch for:
* The victim becomes lethargic, dizzy or may feel weak and faint, hence the term “exhaustion”.
* There is profuse sweating.
* He may be thirsty.
* The skin is cool, moist and pale.
* He may experience a headache and muscle cramps and/or pains.
* He may become nauseated and vomit.
* The body temperature may be slightly elevated ( 101-102 degrees F). The reading should be taken with an oral or rectal thermometer to obtain a core temperature. An ear or forehead thermometer is not suitable, because excessive sweating may cause them to register too low.
* The pulse may be normal or slightly raised.
Treatment is simple: move the victim to a cooler environment and give him lots of water to drink. Air conditioning, a fan, and ice packs, when used judiciously, will all help lower body temperature.
When heat exhaustion is severe, the victim will need medical attention. Take him to the nearest hospital emergency entrance if he is too nauseated to drink water and keep it down. He will require fluids to be administered intravenously.
The good news is that the prognosis for victims of heat exhaustion is excellent. Full recovery with no after-effects may be expected.
So enjoy summer, but stay alert. Cold winters and hot summers are both accompanied by potential health hazards for which we all need to be on the alert.
