Scripps Howard News Service
June, 1999 Heat kills by pushing the body beyond its limits for naturally cooling itself. Normally, evaporating perspiration is sufficient. But in extreme heat -- days of temperatures 10 degrees or more above the average high for an area, and high humidity -- evaporation slows down. - Men tend to sweat more than women and are more susceptible to heat illness because they become dehydrated more quickly.
- Sunburn can also significantly reduce the skin's ability to cool the body. If you feel burned, try taking a shower to remove oils that may block pores and prevent cooling.
- Heat cramps are painful spasms that normally affect leg and abdominal muscles, accompanied by heavy sweating. First aid calls for putting pressure on the cramp, or a gentle massage, and sips of water.
- Heat exhaustion is marked by heavy sweating, weakness, cool, pale and clammy skin, a weak pulse and possibly fainting or vomiting. The victim's temperature may still be normal. Treatment: Lie down in cool place, loosen clothing. Apply cool wet cloths. Fan or move the patient to a cool place. Give sips of water, but stop if nausea occurs. If vomiting occurs, get medical help.
- Heat stroke or sunstroke is marked by hot dry skin, very rapid pulse, and a body temperature in excess of 106 degrees Fahrenheit and possible loss of consciousness. The victim will probably not sweat. This is a real medical emergency. Call 911 or get the victim to a hospital. When waiting for ambulance, move to coolest place possible, use a cool bath or sponges, fans, remove clothing. Do not give fluids.
(Sources: Federal Emergency Management Agency, American Red Cross.) (Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service, www.shns.com.)
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