Heat & Health

​ HEALTH RISKS RISE WITH HEAT by Patient First
Doctors Warn Against Heat Exposure

Baltimore, MD – The summer swelter has arrived as temperatures and humidity rise.  This increases health risks as you work and play outside, especially for older people and young children.
 
Excessive heat can cause several health problems including heat exhaustion. Symptoms include:

•        Profuse sweating
•        Headache
•        Dizziness
•        Nausea
•        Rapid heartbeat
•        Skin that feels cool and moist
•        Muscle cramps. 

 
Move this person to a cooler location, apply cool wet cloths to their body, and give them cool water to drink.  If the person vomits or refuses to drink, call 9-1-1.  Heat exhaustion can lead to heart stroke.
 
How can you avoid heat-related illnesses?
·       Wear light-weight, light colored clothing made of breathable material, like cotton.
·       Stay hydrated.  Drink water throughout the day.
·       Avoid strenuous outdoor activity on hot days.
·       If you must be outside, take frequent breaks in a cool place.
·      Air-conditioning is the best way to protect against heat-related illness.  If you do not have air-conditioning at home during extreme heat. Try to spend time in air-conditioned locations such as a shopping mall, public library, or public health sponsored heat-relief shelter in your area.
 
Related Content

•        Health Risks Rise With the Heat: https: https://www.patientfirst.com/blog/health-risks-rise-with-the-heat.aspx?PostId=222&tabid=819

 
About Patient First
All Patient First Medical Centers are open 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day of the year, including holidays.  Patient First provides non-appointment urgent care for routine injuries and illnesses, as well as primary care for patients who do not have a regular physician.  Each Patient First center has on-site digital x-ray, on-site laboratory, and on-site prescription drugs. Patient First currently operates medical centers in Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. ​
  
www.facebook.com/PatientFirst
twitter.com/PatientFirst