Although it’s nice to grab some sun and soak in the vitamin D, it can also be cause for concern if you get too much! Know the difference between Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke.
Heat Exhaustion is when the body has a loss of water and salt, typically through excessive sweating. It is most likely to affect the elderly, people with high blood pressure and those working in a hot environment.
Symptoms:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Irritability
- Thirst
- Heavy sweating
- Elevated body temperature
- Decreased urine output
Ways to support heat exhaustion are by moving to a cool place, take frequent sips of cool water and use cold compresses on their head, face or neck.
Heat Stroke is when the body’s temperature rises quickly and the body is not able to cool down through sweating. It is the most serious heat-related illness and needs to be addressed quickly.
Some signs are:
- Confusion and slurred speech
- Loss of consciousness
- Hot, dry skin or profuse sweating
- Seizures
- Very high blood pressure
Heat stoke can be fatal if treatment is not administered quickly. If you suspect heat stroke call 911 for medical assistance. While waiting for assistance move to a cool place and help cool person by placing cold wet cloths on the head, neck and armpits.
There are ways to help reduce your risk of heat related illness by being proactive with these tips:
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Stay out of direct sunlight during the heat of the day which is between 10AM – 4PM. Also wear sunscreen to prevent sun burns; skin is thinner as we age.
- Be aware of heat weather warnings- the higher temperatures become a higher risk as we age; bodies don’t regulate the temperature the same as when we were younger.
- Try to stay in cool places if you can. Close window coverings during the heat of the day, try not to use the oven, use fans and open windows in the evening when the temperature lowers. Some communities have cooling stations to help keep people cool during extreme heat waves or go to a cool place in your community like; a shopping center, entertainment center, place of warship, or library.
- Have cool baths or showers to cool your body.
- Be aware of medications and how they affect your body.
- If you have a chronic health condition, be aware of risk factors and prevention strategies.
- Check on friends, family and neighbours who maybe at risk.
Whitevalley Resource Center would like to thank our sponsors, The United Way, and Interior Health.
