Surviving the Summer Heat

Summer heat can be more than uncomfortable- it can be a threat to your health, especially for older adults and children. Whatever your age, don't let the summer heat get the best of you.

Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion occurs when a person cannot sweat enough to cool the body, usually the result of not drinking enough fluids during the hot weather. It generally develops when a person is playing, working, or exercising outside in extreme heat. Symptoms include:

• Dizziness, weakness, nausea, headache, and vomiting
• Blurry vision
• Body temperature rising to 101 degrees Farenheit
• Sweaty skin
• Feeling hot and thirsty
• Difficulty speaking

A person suffering from heat exhaustion must move to a cool place and drink plenty of water.

Heat Stroke
Heat Stroke is the result of untreated heat exhaustion. Symptoms include:

• Sweating
• Unawareness of heat and thirst
• Body temperature rising rapidly to above 101 degrees Farenheit
• Confusion or delirium
• Loss of consciousness or seizure

Heat stroke is a serious medical emergency that must be treated quickly by a trained professional. Until help arrives, cool the person down by placing ice on their neck. If the person is awake and able to swallow, give him or her fluids.

Tips for Staying Cool

• Drink plenty of water. In hot weather, drink enough to quench your thirst. The average adult needs eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day- more during heat spells.
• Dress for the weather. When outside, wear lightweight clothing made of natural fabrics and a well-ventilated hat.
• Stay inside if possible. Do errands and outside chores early or late in the day.
• Eat light. Replace heavy or hot meals with lighter, refreshing foods.
• Think cool! Take a cool shower or apply a cold compress to your pulse points. Or, try spending time indoors at an air-conditioned mall or movie theater.

DID YOU KNOW?
Staying well hydrated is one of the most important things you can do to beat the heat. Feeling thirsty means that your body is on the road to becoming dehydrated- so don't wait to drink until you are thirsty, especially if working or exercising outside in extreme heat.