It's summertime in the Wabash Valley, which means Mother Nature is bound to bring the heat.
The summer months are notorious for delivering intense temperatures across both Indiana and Illinois. That high heat mixed with elevated humidity levels can be detrimental to everyone, especially children and the elderly.
More than 600 people die from extreme heat every year in the United States. That's according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, yet heat related deaths and illnesses are preventable.
The body's natural coolant is sweat. Heat-related illnesses occur when the body is unable cool itself down. In the extreme heat, a person's body temperature rises faster than it can cool down, which can cause damage to the brain and other vital organs.
Common heat-related illnesses include sunburns and heat rash. However, the more serious heat emergencies have three stages:
• Heat Cramps
• Heat Exhaustion
• Heatstroke
Heat Cramps
• Muscle Pain, Tightness & Spasms
• Dehydration
• Fatigue
Heat Exhaustion
• Muscle Cramps
• Dizziness
• Mild Confusion
• Fast Heart Rate or Breathing
• Headache
• Irritability
• Extreme Thirst
• Nausea or Vomiting
• Pale Skin
• Heavy Sweating
• Fainting
Heatstroke
With heatstroke, all the symptoms of heat exhaustion may exist, plus:
• Body Temperature Over 104°F
• Irrational Behavior or Hallucinations
• Confusion
• Rapid, Shallow Breathing
• Rapid, Weak Pulse
• Seizures
• Loss of Consciousness
• Dry Skin
The easiest way to prevent a heat emergency is to stay in the shade or in an air-conditioned area during the hottest parts of the day.
If you need be outside during those times, take extra precautions.
• Rest as often as possible.
• Wear light-colored, loose clothing.
• Drink water frequently.
• Avoid alcohol.
It's also important to check on the elderly, children, those with special needs and pets.
Always remember to Play it Safe!
This important safety message is brought to you by your Union Hospital Emergency Trauma Team.