Episode # 397 "Avoiding, Recognizing, and Treating Heat Related Emergencies"

It's summertime in the northern hemisphere.
Much of North America is currently experiencing extreme heat. Has been... and will be... for a while.
Records for high temps have been broken in the history of record-keeping.
Some blame climate change, others claim the earth has experienced far more extreme temps up or down in it's long history.
Despite our opinions, the high heat is serious... even life-threatening for some.
Hospital emergency rooms are overloaded with heat related emergencies...
We need to take some precautions, we need to know the signs, the symptoms, and the treatment.
That's what we are discussing today: "Avoiding, Recognizing, and Treating Heat Related Emergencies"
so stay with us.

Two types of heat related emergencies
    Heat Exhaustion
    Heat Stroke

Heat Exhaustion:
Heat exhaustion occurs when the body overheats due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures or physical exertion in hot environments.

Common signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion
Excessive sweating,
Dizziness,
Weakness,
Headache,
Nausea,
Vomiting,
Muscle cramps,
Rapid heartbeat.
If left untreated, it can progress to heatstroke, which is a more severe condition.l


Treatment for heat exhaustion:
Move the affected person to a cooler environment, an air-conditioned space if possible, or to a shaded area.

Encourage rest
    Drink plenty of fluids, specifically water or sports drinks that contain electrolytes.

Lower the body temp
    Apply cool, damp cloths to the skin, take a cool shower, fan the patient.
    At this point, they ARE dehydrated, and may require an I.V.


Heat Stroke:
Heat stroke is when the body's temperature regulation system fails, and leads to a dangerously high body temperature.

Some signs and symptoms of heat stroke

A high body temperature
    (usually above 103°F or 39.4°C),
Hot and dry skin
    (lack of sweating),
Rapid and strong pulse,
Headache,
Dizziness,
Confusion,
Nausea,
Even loss of consciousness.

Heat stroke is a true medical emergency!
Immediate treatment is crucial!
Call emergency services right away.

While waiting for help to arrive, move the person to a cooler area and try to lower their body temperature by any means available.
Some ways include:
    applying cool water to their skin,
    fanning them, or
    placing ice packs on their neck, armpits, and groin area.
        Avoid using ice-cold water or ice directly on the skin as it can cause shivering and constrict blood vessels

If in Hospital Care is needed, "active external cooling" will be used to enhance evaporation and heat loss.
    The will use cooling blankets or ice packs to help lower body temperature.

    Supportive care is also provided to address any complications or organ damage from the heat stroke.
    IV fluids will be used to treat dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
    Vital signs will be monitored, and oxygen therapy provided  if needed.
    Medications may also be given to manage seizures, muscle breakdown, or irregular heart rhythms


Taking care to AVOID heat related emergencies:

 NEVER leave a person or pet in a car without air conditioning.
    In the sun, temp can rise 20 degrees in 10 minutes
           
Stay Hydrated
    Drink plenty of fluids, especially water

Avoid Peak Sun Hours
    Plan outdoor activities in the cooler parts of the day
        Early mornings, very late afternoon, early evening

Wear Appropriate Clothing
    lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing

Rest often in shady areas
    Take regular breaks to cool off

Take It Easy
    Start activities slow and pick up the pace gradually
        If exertion in the heat makes your heart pound and leaves you gasping for breath, stop all activity, find a cool or shady area, and rest, especially if you become lightheaded, confused, weak, or faint.

Stay Cool Indoors if at all possible,
    stay in an air-conditioned place
    go to a public place with air conditioning such as a shopping mall or a library to cool off.

We want you to Be Very Cautious if You're at Increased Risk of heat related issues
    Some medications and conditions increase your risk of heat-related problems.
        Avoid the heat if possible.
        Act quickly if you notice symptoms of overheating.

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