This summer is going to be a hot one! And with multiple outdoor summer activities like boot camps (shout out to Shape Fitness USA, summer 2012!), kid camps, vacation bible school, and other waterpark adventures, we all must remain vigilant against heat-related injuries, especially in Houston, Texas.
There are three heat-related injuries that can cause severe harm to the human body and may cause death: heat cramp, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. The most deadly is heat stroke!
HEAT CRAMP
Heat cramps may develop after long periods of direct sunlight without rest (up to 6 hours). The cramp usually is found in the hamstrings, accompanied by sweating, redness of the face, headaches and dizziness. This is the mildest from of heat-related injury.
HEAT EXHAUSTION
Heat exhaustion develops after long periods of working in direct sunlight over two or three days (up to 8 hours). The symptoms of exhaustion are cramping of the legs, hot, dry skin, dizziness, nausea, and redness of the face and skin. This is the intermediate form of heat-related injury.
HEAT STROKE
Heat stroke develops as a result of extreme heat over several days in short periods of work or play in direct sun exposure. Often times, without adequate hydration for the body. Heat stroke symptoms are dizziness, confusion, headache, cramping, nausea and vomiting, hot, dry skin and immense thirst.
Now that we know what to look for this summer to mitigate heat injury, let's learn how to beat the heat and summer-proof our activities. The best defense is PREVENTION.
-Drink more fluids NOW -Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink
-Stay indoors, and in air-conditioned places -Take a cool shower or bath
-Wear lightweight clothing; loose-fitting -NEVER leave anyone (pet) in closed car
-Check on the ill, elderly and children regularly, as they are at greater risk for injury
Remember what signs to look for and symptoms and have sports drinks ans sunscreen readily available. Follow these helpful tips from CDC and you can definitely BEAT the Houston heat.
