A Heat Advisory was issued for Kaufman County on Wednesday afternoon, July 23, 2013, and with it came a heat index of approximately 105 degrees.
In extreme heat conditions, there are many heat related illnesses doctors warn about and one local doctor is providing tips to protect yourself and your family.
The combination of heat and humidity we experience in North Texas makes it harder for your body to cool itself. As a result, your body’s internal temperature rises, and heat-related illnesses become a concern. Although everyone is at risk, older adults, young children, those who are sick, and overweight people are most likely to develop problems due to heat exposure.
Dr. Larry Dencklau, Medical Director of Emergency Services at Lake Pointe Health Network says, “For most people, there are warning signs that the heat is beginning to affect you. The first signs may be muscle cramps in your stomach, arms or legs. You may notice swelling in your feet, legs, and ankles. Another early warning sign may be dizziness or feeling faint. People taking certain medications including beta-blockers may be more prone to heat-related dizziness.”
“If you notice these early signs of heat illnesses, you should immediately stop any physical activity and move to a cooler, shady area. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids but avoid drinks containing alcohol or caffeine,” says Dr. Dencklau.
The second stage of heat illness is heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion occurs when your body can no longer keep itself cold and your body temperature will remain normal but your skin will feel “cold and clammy.” Dr. Dencklau states that the “symptoms may include thirst, dizziness, weakness, lack of coordination, nausea, and profuse sweating. You can treat heat exhaustion by following the same steps you would for heat illness, but if you do not start feeling better soon, you should seek emergency medical care.”
The final stage of heat related illnesses is a heat stroke. According to Dr. Dencklau, “this is a life-threatening illness where your body cannot regulate its temperature by sweating. If this occurs, your temperature rises so high that brain damage or death may occur.”
During heat stroke, your internal temperature may reach 106 degrees Fahrenheit within 10 to 15 minutes. The warning signs of heat stroke include a temperature of 103 degrees Fahrenheit or more, red hot and dry skin, severely decreased perspiration, headache, dizziness, nausea, mental confusion, and unconsciousness.
If you think you are experiencing a heat stroke you should immediately be taken to the closest emergency facility. If you are unable to get to an emergency facility you should call 9-1-1 and attempt to cool the person affected until help arrives.
“Prevention is best,” says Dr. Dencklau.
“Stay indoors during the heat of the day and limit your exposure to the sun. There are many public buildings like libraries, malls and movie theaters where you can go during the heat of the day. During days of extreme heat, many towns will open special cooling shelters for people to use.”
Drink plenty of fluids, especially those that don’t contain alcohol or caffeine. Eat light, well-balanced meals.
Dr. Dencklau also says that “wearing loose-fitting, lightweight clothing and lighter colors will help reflect heat and keep you cooler. You may also want to wear a wide-brimmed hat to shade your face and neck.”
Most importantly, avoid strenuous activities such as exercise or working in the yard during the middle of the day.