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Show aadEEAUA Knowing the facts helps prevent heat stress by Anne Bradrick Occupational Health Nurse Educator WRIGHT-PATTERSO- AFB, Ohio N high humidity is added to the situation. The more moisture already present in the air, the more difficult it is for sweat to evaporate. Thats why in instances of high humidity, one may feel more uncomfortable than if the temperature is higher and the humid- Summer means hot, humid weather. The phrase heat stress refers to a group of illnesses that include heat cramps, heat exhaustion ity is lower. and heat stroke. These problems stem The temperature doesnt have to be from the body not being able to keep hot for these conditions to occur. They itself at its proper operating temper- can occur in a confined area with litature due to excessive external tem- - tle or no air circulation or when one peratures. wears protective equipment, which The potential for problems is present can increase workload and restrict when the environmental temperature movement. is close to or exceeds normal body temperature, making it difficult for Types and treatment of heat stress: excess heat to escape the body. In an Heat cramps painful spasms of effort to keep the body at a normal the muscles, caused by excessive sweattemperature, the blood vessels expand ing during strenuous activity, which to carry more blood to the upper lay- - depletes the bodys salt and water. ers of skin and away from active mus- Cramps usually occur in the legs, arms cles, the brain and other vital organs. and abdomen. Stop activity, and sit This effort results in fatigue and a in a cool place. Drink water and liqdecline in alertness. uids, such as sports beverages. Seek The problem is compounded when medical attention if cramps are not (AFPN) heat-relate- d gone in one hour. Heat exhaustion the bodys response to an excessive loss of the fluids and salt contained in sweat. Signs are pale and cool skin, heavy sweat- ing, heat cramps, tiredness, headache, nausea, weakness, dizziness and giddiness (the victim may appear drunk). Move to a cool place, lie down with feet elevated and drink fluids such as sports beverages. Seek medical attention when symptoms are severe or not gone in one hour. Heat stroke occurs when the to control its becomes unable body The temperature. bodys temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails and the body is unable to cool down. Signs are red, hot and dry skin (no sweating), rapid pulse, headache, dizziness, nausea and confusion. This is an emergency situation. Call for an ambulance, move to a cool place, cool the victim rapidly with cool not water, fan, give fluids if con- ice-col- d scious and be prepared to give CPR. Prevention of heat stress: Dont exercise, work or stay in high heat environments when the temper- ature andor the humidity is high, especially the hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Allow for regular breaks and pace yourself by starting slowly and gradually picking up the pace. Even though you arent thirsty, avoid dehydration by drinking fluids before, during and after heat exposure and avoid alcohol, which is dehy- drating. Wear wide-brimme- long-sleeve- hat and loose-fittin- d d, light-colore- d clothing. Be aware that many medications and illnesses may increase risks Know that infants, children, older heat-relate- d adults and overweight people are at higher risks Dont use salt tablets; normally salt food instead. If feeling symptoms, immediately seek shelter and aid. 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