As Temperatures Heat Up, Beware Of Heat-Related Illnesses

Heat-Related Illnesses

With these very hot days, temperature spikes can bring risks of heat-related illnesses.

The hot, humid weather to the Ocean County area raises concerns, is unwelcome and can be potentially dangerous to certain people and pets.

"During periods of high heat and humidity some special precautions are required, especially among the young, the elderly, those persons with chronic health problems and family pets," said Edward Rumen, Health Department Public Information Officer.

"After a cool spring, many of us were looking forward to summery temperatures and a chance to get outdoors," said Freeholder Gerry P. Little, liaison to the Ocean County Board of Health. "But the recent excessive heat and humidity also can take a toll on the most vulnerable among us. Luckily there are some minor lifestyle changes we can take which can greatly enhance our ability to ride out any heat wave this season."

The Ocean County Health Department offers the following tips for coping with high heat and humidity:

Increase your intake of fluids such as non-alcoholic, non-carbonated, caffeine-free beverages. Persons with epilepsy, heart, kidney or liver disease, those on fluid-restrictive diets or having a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake.

Wear clothing that is light in color, loose fitting and covers as much skin as possible.

Protect your face and head from the sun's harmful rays by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.

Don't leave children, a frail elderly or disabled person or pets in an enclosed car, not even for a minute, as temperatures can quickly climb to dangerous levels.

Slow down and eliminate strenuous activity such as running, biking, lawn and garden work during the hottest times of the day.

Whenever possible, stay in a cool or air-conditioned environment. If your home is not air-conditioned, visit the library or go to a mall or other public building where you can stay for a few hours.

Avoid extreme temperature changes. A cool shower immediately after coming in from the heat can bring on hypothermia.

Avoid too much sunshine. Always use a sunscreen with the proper SPF (sun protection factor) rating. A sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 is recommended. Sunburn will not only cause discomfort but it will slow down the body's ability to cool itself.

Make sure pets have plenty of fresh water. Change it on a daily basis and, if outdoors, keep it in a shady location.

Rumen said there are four types of heat disorders associated with the currently hot weather that can cause varying degrees of discomfort or illness. Each requires its own treatment.

"All heat disorders are serious and should be considered dangerous," said Ella Boyd, VMD, Public Health Coordinator. "Remember also that one person might react to a heat disorder differently from another person, and not all symptoms are necessary to have a heat disorder. Always take the necessary precautions for children, the elderly, pets and yourself, while remaining alert and aware of your environment."

The four types of heat disorders include:

Sunburn -- Symptoms include redness and pain, possible swelling, blisters, fever and headaches. Treatment for sunburn would include applying dry sterile dressings to any blisters that may develop and seeking medical attention. A cool shower can remove oils that may be blocking pores, preventing the body from cooling naturally..

Heat Cramps -- Symptoms include painful spasms usually in the leg or abdominal muscles and heavy sweating. Treatment can include applying a firm pressure or gentle massage to the cramping muscle to relieve spasm. Sip water. If nausea occurs, discontinue water.

Heat Exhaustion " Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale or clammy skin; fainting, vomiting and weak pulse. Treatment includes getting the victim to lie down in a cool place. Loosen clothing and apply a cool, wet cloth to his/her forehead or back of neck. Give sips of water. If nausea occurs, discontinue water. If vomiting occurs, seek immediate medical attention.

Heat Stroke (Sun Stroke) -- Symptoms include a high body temperature (106 degrees or higher) and hot, dry skin. The victim will likely not sweat but will have a rapid, strong pulse and possibly be unconsciousness. Treating a person with heat stroke is for professionals only. Call 911 and get help as soon as possible. Do not give fluids to the victim. Instead, move the victim to a cooler environment, remove excess clothing and try a cool bath or sponging to reduce body temperature. Use extreme caution for caring for victim until trained medical personnel arrive