All articles tagged with #heat related illness
Certain prescription drugs, including antidepressants, antipsychotics, heart medications, stimulants, and insulin, can impair the body's ability to regulate temperature and hydration, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses during hot weather. It's important for individuals on these medications to stay hydrated, avoid peak heat hours, and consult healthcare providers about managing heat exposure.
As triple-digit temperatures hit the Western U.S. due to a heat dome, experts warn of common mistakes to avoid when going out in the heat. Key tips include acclimatizing gradually, staying hydrated, avoiding hot cars, being cautious with certain medications, recognizing early signs of heat-related illness, seeking timely medical attention, wearing loose and light clothing, and avoiding alcohol. These precautions are crucial to prevent heat-related illnesses and ensure safety during extreme heat conditions.
Snoop Dogg's outdoor concert near Houston resulted in 16 hospitalizations due to heat-related illnesses, with a total of 35 people showing signs of such conditions. The high temperatures during the concert, part of a heatwave, led to fans experiencing heat exhaustion and other related issues. This incident follows similar occurrences at other concerts this summer, highlighting the dangers of extreme heat.
A retired USPS letter carrier, Mike Kurz, calls for improved protection from extreme heat for USPS employees. Kurz, who experienced heat-related illness throughout his 44-year career, suggests that the USPS enhance heat-safety training by involving experienced letter carriers in the education process. He also advocates for the provision of air-conditioned vehicles, as many trucks currently in use lack air conditioning. Kurz emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the health of letter carriers over mail delivery.
The St. Louis area is expected to experience dangerously high temperatures, with daily highs around 100 degrees and heat indexes reaching up to 115, starting on Sunday and lasting throughout the week. This prolonged heatwave may be the first of its kind in nine years. The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning, advising people to stay in air-conditioned rooms, drink plenty of water, apply sunscreen, wear lightweight clothing, and take regular breaks in the shade. The high humidity will provide little relief, with overnight temperatures dropping only to the mid-70s to 80.
Metro Phoenix experienced scattered thunderstorms and received some relief from the heat with rainfall, but drier conditions are expected to return until at least Friday. An excessive heat warning has been issued for most of Maricopa and northern Pinal counties, with temperatures reaching upward of 110 degrees. The Arizona Department of Health Services has provided tips to prevent heat-related illnesses, including staying hydrated, dressing appropriately, avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest hours, and monitoring those at risk.
Two men driving in Death Valley National Park got lost and illegally drove off-road, resulting in one man being hospitalized with heat-related illness. Charges and fines are pending for the incident. The National Park Service emphasizes the importance of respecting park rules and exercising caution, as driving off established roads can damage the environment and be dangerous. The park has issued warnings about extreme summer heat and advises visitors to stay on paved roads, carry extra water, and be prepared for survival.
New Orleans is experiencing an increase in heat-related illnesses due to an ongoing heatwave, with emergency medical services responding to triple the number of heat-related calls compared to last year. The city's emergency medical systems are facing challenges with funding and staffing, operating at only 60% of its needed staff. To combat heat stroke, medical teams use ice, misting fans, and IV fluids for rapid rehydration. However, the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves due to climate change pose a significant burden on health infrastructure, requiring increased resources to treat patients suffering from extreme heat exposure.
Eight dogs being transported to a K9 training facility in Indiana died from heat-related illnesses after the air conditioning unit in the cargo area of the truck failed. The driver, unaware of the AC unit's failure, stopped the vehicle after hearing the dogs barking and discovered them in distress. Emergency services responded, but despite efforts to save them, eight dogs died. The incident was attributed to a mechanical failure rather than animal cruelty or neglect.
Our bodies have the ability to adapt and build up tolerance to heat through a process called heat acclimatization. By gradually exposing ourselves to short bouts of heat and humidity, our bodies can trigger physiological adaptations that improve our ability to withstand hotter temperatures and reduce the risk of heat-related illness. Some of these adaptations include increased blood volume, improved sweating efficiency, and better electrolyte retention. It is important to start slowly and listen to our bodies, as factors such as age, underlying medical conditions, and medications can affect our ability to adapt. Staying well-hydrated, engaging in physical activity during heat exposures, and allowing for adequate rest and recovery are also key in building heat tolerance.
As the planet warms and heat waves become more common, health care providers are urging medical systems to be proactive in addressing heat-related illnesses. Heat stroke, one of the most common and deadly heat-related illnesses, often catches people off-guard. The elderly, young children, those with underlying health conditions, and athletes are particularly vulnerable. Heat stroke can be mistaken for other conditions, making it crucial for health care providers to consider it as a possibility. Emergency departments need to incorporate climate into their thinking and be prepared to treat heat stroke urgently. Health professionals and patients are encouraged to take proactive measures to stay safe during hot weather, such as checking the weather, staying indoors, staying hydrated, and wearing appropriate clothing.
Extreme heat is becoming increasingly dangerous, with record-breaking temperatures being experienced in various parts of the world. Heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke can be life-threatening, particularly for vulnerable populations such as infants, older adults, and those who work outdoors. To stay safe during extreme heat, it is important to keep your home and body cool, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, recognize the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and take precautions when engaging in outdoor activities. Additionally, it is crucial to check on vulnerable individuals in the community and provide support if needed.
Phoenix, Arizona, continues to break heat records with low temperatures in the 90s for eight consecutive days and temperatures reaching 110 degrees or above for 17 days. The heat wave is expected to continue, with temperatures forecasted to stay between 115 and 118 degrees through the weekend. Flagstaff also experienced record-breaking heat, while Tucson is expected to see temperatures near 110 degrees. Monsoon storms may provide some relief, but concerns about dust storms and heat-related illnesses persist. The Arizona Department of Health Services provides tips to prevent heat-related illness, including staying hydrated, dressing appropriately, and avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest hours of the day.
Medical experts are warning about the dangers of extreme heat and the signs of heat-related illness. The three stages of heat-related illness are heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Symptoms include muscle cramps, headaches, nausea, vomiting, cool and clammy skin, elevated heart rate, and a core temperature above 105 degrees Fahrenheit. The very young and older people are most vulnerable, especially in urban environments. To prevent heat-related illness, stay hydrated, seek shade and air conditioning, and avoid caffeine and alcohol. If someone appears to have heat stroke, cool their body down, offer fluids if conscious, and call 911.
Several Taylor Swift fans waiting in line for merchandise outside Empower Field at Mile High in Denver suffered from heat-related illnesses due to the high temperatures. At least eight fans were treated by paramedics, with one being taken to the hospital. Bottled water was being sold for as much as $8. Despite the challenges, dedicated fans expressed that the experience and excitement of being in line for the merchandise was worth it, as they eagerly awaited Swift's upcoming concerts at the stadium.