ADPH warns to take precautions in extreme heat
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WAKA) – As temperatures get close to triple digits, health officials with the Alabama Department of Public Health are warning people to take precautions during the extreme heat.
Anyone exposed to high temperatures or extreme heat can experience symptoms when the body’s temperature control system is overloaded. The most common heat-related illnesses are heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Heat cramps include muscle pains or spasms, profuse sweat and high salt concentration in the sweat.
Heat exhaustion is associated with heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, or vomiting and fainting. Other possible symptoms may include cool and moist skin, a fast and weak pulse rate, fast and shallow breathing, or irritability. Older adults, those with high blood pressure, and those working or exercising in a hot environment are prone to heat exhaustion. If heat exhaustion is not treated, it may progress to heatstroke.
Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. Officials say it is life-threatening and may occur when the body is unable to control its temperature. Body temperature may rise to 106 degrees F or higher within 10 -15 minutes. Signs include an extremely high body temperature, red, hot and dry or moist skin, rapid, strong pulse, throbbing headache, dizziness, nausea, dehydration, combativeness or confusion, and unconsciousness. Heat stroke is a medical emergency and even with immediate treatment, it can be life-threatening or cause serious long-term problems.
Health officials recommend people drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcohol or caffeinated beverages to prevent dehydration, stay in an air-conditioned room, keep out of the sun by seeking shelter, wear a wide-brimmed hat, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing, use sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher, take cool showers or baths, and reduce or eliminate strenuous activities during the hottest times of the day. NEVER leave people or pets in a parked vehicle.
Individuals with heart disease, diabetes, obesity, poor circulation, or a history of stroke, people of older and younger ages, and those taking certain medications are at high risk of becoming ill in hot weather.
