Heat Related Health Problems

Heat Related Health

Contrary to what many people believe, heat related health problems are not confined to hot climates. They can happen anywhere even indoors. When we exercise we sweat. Our metabolism also increases. The result is a loss of body water and electrolytes such as sodium and potassium. When these losses become severe, adverse reactions occur. These reactions can be mild or serious depending upon the severity of the water loss.

Overheating may cause heat syncope that is characterized by dizziness, fainting or near fainting, a drop in blood pressure, high temperature, and moist skin.

A loss of body sodium may result in heat cramps, which involve tightening, cramps and muscle spasms. There is no loss of consciousness but considerable pain and discomfort.

Heat exhaustion is signaled by dizziness, weakness, exhaustion, nausea and vomiting in its early stages. Usually the skin is moist and flushed but it can also be dry. The temperature is high and muscle cramps may also be present. If not treated, heat exhaustion can result in partial or total unconsciousness, and lead to heat stroke.

Heat stoke is accompanied by extremely high fever, disorientation, twitching, seizures and coma. The skin is hot and dry.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency and requires a physician’s attention. The person should be evacuated to a medical emergency room as soon as possible. In the meantime the skin should be cooled by applying ice or cold water or using a fan. If oxygen is available, it should be given. Do not try to give fluids, as a person in heat stroke may not be able to swallow.

Heat syncope, heat cramps and heat exhaustion can be treated by having the patient lie down in a cool, shaded area. Loosen heavy clothing. Give water to drink and cool the body by applying cold compresses or using a fan. The person should rest for two to three hours before engaging in any activity.

Heat related problems are usually associated with athletic activity. They can be prevented if people will do the following.

Always wear lightweight loose clothing when exercising or doing heavy work. Have cold or cool water available and drink it frequently. If in a different climate, such as on vacation in a hotter area than you are accustomed to, allow yourself to acclimatize before starting to exercise. Work up to intense exercise gradually.

You do not need to take salt or calcium tablets. Your body automatically conserves salt and calcium if you drink sufficient water. However, if you are a person who tends to sweat a lot you should use more salt on your food.

You can also use commercial electrolyte drinks. However, water is cheaper and just as effective. What is important is to be sure to drink enough of it. You may need to carry it with you if it isn’t readily available.

If you have had a heat related illness in the past or are especially sensitive to heat, you need to be more careful.

NIOSH: Weather Extreme Sun Heat Wave: A Safety Guide to Protecting Yourself Outdoors at Work & Home
by: NIOSH
publisher: I Ina Publishing, published: 2011-07-18
ASIN: B005DENZY6
sales rank: 636858

Hot summer months pose special hazards for outdoor workers who must protect themselves against heat, sun exposure, and other hazards. Employers and
employees should know the potential hazards in their workplaces and how to manage them.

Studies have shown that the temperature inside a parked vehicle can rapidly rise to a dangerous level for children, adults and pets. Leaving the windows slightly open does not significantly decrease the heating rate.

Conditions of extreme heat are defined as summertime temperatures that are substantially hotter and/or more humid than average for location at that time of year.

The best defense for Heat-Related Illness is prevention.
Heat is the number one weather-related killer in the United States.

Surveillance of Heat-Related Illness with Ambulance Dispatch Data
by: Kate Bassil
publisher: VDM Verlag, published: 2010-01-08
ASIN: 3639221729
EAN: 9783639221725
price: $80.00 (new), $79.95 (used)

Heat-related illness (HRI) is of growing public health importance, particularly with climate change and an anticipated increased frequency of heat waves. A syndromic surveillance system for HRI could provide new information on the population impact of excessive heat and thus be of value for public health planning. This book describes the association between 911 medical dispatch calls for HRI and temperature in Toronto, Ontario during the summers of 2002-2005. A combination of methodological approaches was used to understand both the temporal trend and spatial pattern in the relationship between 911 medical dispatch data and temperature. Monitoring 911 medical dispatch data for HRI could assist public health units carrying out both temporal and geospatial surveillance. This previously untapped data source should be further explored for its applications in understanding the relationship between heat and human health and more appropriately targeting public health interventions.

Heat-Related Illness
Dr. Niels Rathlev, chair of Emergency Medicine at Baystate Medical Center, discusses heat-related illness and offers tips on staying healthy during the heat wave.
Heat-related Illnesses
Todd Nash, MD, ER Medical Director, Seton Northwest Hospital, Seton Healthcare Family, discusses heat-related illnesses and how to prevent getting ill.