The day began as any other for John, a Northeast Florida landscaper. There was a list of properties to be mowed, weeded and pruned. Per usual, he left his home with plenty of liquids but in the press to finish the properties before the rain was forecasted, he neglected to hydrate.
Shortly before noon, John’s co-worker was unable to locate him. After a search on the property yielded no results, he went to their truck. There he found an unconscious John. The co-worker called 911 and John was transported to a local hospital.
John was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit with a temperature of 106 degrees. He was diagnosed with heat stroke, one of the common heat emergencies experienced in high environmental temperatures in Southern states. John was deemed to be in critical condition and in danger of death or organ failure.
John’s misfortune could happen to anyone who is exposed to the recent temperatures exceeding 90 and 100 degrees. Preventing heat exhaustion and heat stroke begins with knowledge of the contributing factors, adequate hydration and being aware of the signs and symptoms.
Heat production results from our body’s metabolic activity and adsorption of heat from the environment. During times of heavy physical activity our body heat production can increase as much as fifteen times. When production increases, heat loss must also increase in order to attain balance.. This is accomplished through sweating and convection. The number of fluids lost solely by sweating can be as much as one liter per hour.
However, when humidity is high, as is often the case in the South, the ability to cool by sweating decreases.
People with increased risk for either heat exhaustion or stroke include those doing heavy exertion such as roofers or construction workers, infants, the elderly, those with cardiovascular disease, alcoholics, scleroderma and others. Some drugs may also be a risk factor. For example, diuretics and lithium. Check with your pharmacist to learn if your medications can increase your risk for heat related problems.
Heat exhaustion is the most common heat emergency and results from inadequate fluid replacement. Signs and symptoms vary from mild to severe and may include fatigue, light headedness, nausea, vomiting, headache, lowered blood pressure and rapid heartbeat and respirations. The temperature may be normal or slightly elevated. Profuse sweating may occur. The treatment is fluids and rest.
Heat stoke is a true medical emergency which can lead to multiple organ failure and death. Signs and symptoms may include extreme temperature elevation, chills, irritability, unsteady gait, headache, nausea, vomiting, bizarre behavior, hallucinations and seizures. Initially there may be marked sweating but later the ability to sweat may be lost. Coma may be the first sign.
When heat stoke is suspected the victim should receive treatment in a clinic or hospital. Lowering body temperature is a priority. Clothing should be removed and the person sponged with cool water. Ice bags may be placed under the arms and in the groin.
Heat cramps are another heat disorder and is the least harmful but often painful. These cramps are brief intermittent pain in muscles that have been subjected to extensive workout. They can be controlled with fluids, rest and sodium replacement. Generally, ample salting of normal meals proves sufficient. Sodium tablets should be avoided unless prescribed by a physician.
The likelihood of developing any of these problems can be reduced by observing these commonsense steps. Avoid exercising outside at midday. Instead exercise in early morning or evening or inside an air-conditioned building. Dress appropriately with loose fitting and light-colored clothing. Drink adequate fluids with at least one to one and a half cups of water ten minutes before jogging and one cup for every 3-4 Km. Take a cool bath or use cold compresses if you feel overheated. And finally, avoid alcohol or solutions with high sodium or glucose content.
Following these preventive measures will increase your chances of having a healthier and more fun summer.
Sharon Gladden is a retired R.N. who lives in Fleming Island.
