Excessive Heat

With heat and humidity common during summer months, the Ohio Department of Health urges everyone to use extra care in avoiding heat-related stress.

Some medications affect the body’s ability to deal with excessive heat. People should be aware of the possible side effects of their medications and avoid high-heat situations. Pet owners should make sure animals, especially those outside, have plenty of water and a place to get out of the sun and cool down.

Studies show people suffer heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion when the body’s temperature control system is overloaded. Sweating is the body’s natural coolant. In some situations, especially during periods of high humidity, sweating alone will not provide an adequate release of body heat.

Summer activities should be balanced with measures to help the body stay cool. Hot weather demands increased fluid intake.

Drinking plenty of cool (not cold) fluids is the key to avoiding heat problems. Active people should drink two to four glasses of cool, nonalcoholic fluids each hour. Do not take salt tablets without a doctor’s advice; avoid fluids that contain alcohol or caffeine. They can add to dehydration and increase the effects of heat illness.

Children and teens involved in team sports should be closely monitored for signs of heat stress. Coaches should consider rescheduling practice or play held during the hottest parts of the day. Young children may become preoccupied with outdoor play to realize they are overheated. Adults should insist on frequent breaks and bring children indoors for a cool drink.

Plan outdoor activities for either the early morning or late evening, when the sun is less direct. Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing and a wide-brimmed hat to protect against sunburn. Move to the shade or into an air-conditioned building at the first signs of heat illness. Remember, heat-related symptoms can come on quickly.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion: heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or fainting. People experiencing these symptoms should be moved to a cool, shady or air-conditioned area, and provided cool, nonalcoholic beverages.

Heat stroke is a potentially life-threatening condition, characterized by a body temperature of 103 degrees or more; red, hot and dry skin with no sweat; rapid pulse; headache; dizziness; nausea; confusion; may be unconscious; and skin color may be gray.

Heat stroke victims need immediate medical assistance. Before help arrives, begin cooling the victim with any means possible, such as spray from a garden hose or by placing the person in a cool tub of water.

Summer is also the time for good Samaritans. Citizens should periodically check on their neighbors - especially if they are older or are disabled. They are of higher risk to suffer heat-related illnesses.