Extreme heat can cause serious health risks

It’s hot. Maricopa residents have been suffering from high temperatures. In other parts of Arizona, like the Colorado River Valley, temperatures have soared as high as 124 degrees. Extreme heat warnings and advisories have been issued all across the state.

Temperatures continue to climb in Maricopa and across Arizona.

The real problem with extreme heat is that it can make people seriously ill in a relatively short period of time. Anyone can become a victim, but the most susceptible are the very young and the elderly.

During a heat wave, which is any period of 48 hours of heat above 90 degrees, Maricopa residents need to take the following preventive measures to “beat the heat”.

· Dress in lightweight, light-colored clothing to reflect sunlight.
· Drink water or juice continuously, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
· Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate you.
· Eat small meals often. Avoid high protein intake that can boost body heat.
· Slow down! Avoid strenuous activity and stay indoors as much as possible. If you have more taxing physical tasks to do, complete them from 4 to 7 a.m.
· Shower twice a day, in the morning and during the heat of the afternoon, to decrease body temperature.

The first symptom of overexposure to heat is the onset of painful muscle cramps. Rest and fluid intake are important. Do NOT take salt tablets, which may dehydrate you.

Fluid intake is critical during periods of extreme heat.

Heat exhaustion generally occurs when individuals exercise heavily, wear too many layers of clothing, or work in a very warm, humid place. When heavy perspiration takes place, blood flow to vital organs decreases. The body is not cooling properly, resulting in a form of shock.

Heat exhaustion symptoms are:
· Headache
· Nausea
· Fatigue
· Lightheadedness
· Cool, pale skin
· Active sweating
· Near normal body temperature

Individuals exhibiting these symptoms should be go to a shady or air-conditioned place, or be in front of a fan. Apply cold, wet towels to the skin and increase fluids immediately.

Heat stroke or sunstroke is more serious than heat exhaustion. It can be life threatening. The victim stops perspiring, and the body temperature can rise high enough that damage or even death may occur.

Heat stroke symptoms are:
· Headache
· Dry, warm, flushed skin
· Rapid pulse
· Disorientation, with possible incoherent speech
· Aggression or possibly loss of consciousness
· High body temperature

Again, move heat stroke victims to a shady or air-conditioned location. Remove the majority of the individual’s clothes, applying cool, wet towels in order to decrease body temperature. Call 911 or transport the victim to the nearest emergency room.

It is hot. Remember, there are ways to beat the heat BEFORE it beats you!