Protecting Against Heat Exhaustion
The heat waves we’ve been experiencing these last few weeks can cause us problems unless we plan our outdoor activities carefully. Heat exhaustion can drain your energy, create dehydration and physical exhaustion. Those most easily affected are people over 65, children under 4 years old, people who are ill, obese, or those taking medication.
Heat exhaustion is the result of prolonged exposure to high heat and insufficient intake of fluids.
The symptoms include: heavy sweating, muscle cramps, tiredness, paleness, dizziness, weakness, nausea or vomiting, and headache.
To protect against heat exhaustion
- Carry water with you and sip throughout the day
- Pace yourself when working outside, exercising or playing
- Replace minerals and salts with fluids such as Gatorade or other drinks with potassium. Avoid sugary drinks.
- Wear light-colored lightweight clothing
- If feeling ill, seek air conditioning, and cool shower
- Plan your outdoor activities to avoid the hottest part of the day.
- If you feel dizzy and/ or stop sweating, get out of the sun immediately. Drink cool water with a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar. This will help replace electrolytes and minerals
Dehydration can stress the heart and impair the kidneys function of maintaining the balance of fluids and electrolytes.
