Summer in Phoenix can be brutal—especially for the very young, the elderly and those with chronic illness.
Even for those who are healthy adults, summer heat holds hazards.
Luckily for us, the physicians who treat heat-related illness in the emergency departments at John C. Lincoln Hospitals have assembled some tips to keep us healthy—if not exactly cool.
How do we know we have an actual heat emergency rather than simply feeling oppressively hot? Heat problems are a continuous spectrum of increasingly serious symptoms.
Heat problems are called heat stress, heat exhaustion or heat stroke—as if these are clearly different things. But as a practical matter, if you see the following series of symptoms, it’s time to take action:
- Rapid pulse
- Muscle cramps
- Cold sweat
- Extreme fatigue
- Flushed cheeks
- Nausea
- Stopped sweating
- Confusion, or
- Passing out.
Caring for Heat Exhaustion
What should we do if we experience these symptoms?
When symptoms begin: Cool off before symptoms become serious. Slow down, get out of the sun and find a cool spot if possible. Cool mist and moving air are great coolants; a spray bottle and a hand-held fan can be very effective. Drink small sips of water or Gatorade, or eat ice chips.
When symptoms get more serious Call 9-1-1 if sweating stops, the person is confused or passes out. This is an emergency that can lead to brain damage and death. Ask EMTs to take the person to the nearest hospital emergency room.
At John C. Lincoln's emergency departments and the Level I Trauma Center at John C. Lincoln North Mountain Hospital, we are prepared and experienced in treating heat illnesses.
Preventing Heat-Related Illness
Before you venture out into the heat, consider the following:
Think ahead. Plan errands and recreational activities for early morning and late afternoon. Avoid the hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when the sun is hottest.
Talk to your pharmacist. Some medications you’re taking may increase your risk of sunburn.
Teach your children to respect the heat. Many kids get burned feet from running barefoot on summertime concrete. Wear sandals! Also, beware of playground equipment that’s been in the sun!
Drink plenty of water or Gatorade. Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
Use sunscreen. Follow label directions and don’t forget the tops of your ears.
Protect your eyes with sunglasses. Long-term sun exposure can lead to cataracts.
Wear a hat.
Keep oven mitts and car window shades handy. Car seats and steering wheels can reach the temperature of a hot skillet. Approach with caution. |