Avoiding heat-related illnesses

With temperatures soaring near triple digits, heat-related illness is a threat to people of all ages.

Dr. Karen Landers, assistant state health officer for the Alabama Department of Public Health, recently spoke to Staff Writer Lisa Singleton-Rickman about how to avoid problems in extreme heat.

Q: What is the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke?

A: Heat exhaustion is the greatest problem, although we often hear the terminology heat stroke being used. Heat stroke, sometimes called sunstroke, is the most serious of heat-related illness and occurs when the body becomes unable to control its temperature.

The body's temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails and the body is unable to cool down. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided.

Heat exhaustion is a milder illness that can develop after several days of exposure to high temperatures.

It may progress to heat stroke.

Warning signs include heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, headache, nausea, vomiting or fainting. The skin may become cool and moist.

A fast and weak pulse rate can occur with fast and shallow breathing.

Q: How do you prevent heat illnesses?

A: Prevention is much better than treatment, obviously. People should take it seriously.

Drink more fluids than usual and avoid alcoholic or caffeinated beverages. Stay indoors during extreme temperatures when possible.

If you must be outside, protect yourself from the sun with a wide-brimmed, light colored hat and loose fitting clothing.

If outside for recreation, try to avoid the hottest times of day, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Q: Is there a certain age group at greater risk for heat related illness?

A: There is no safe age for being in excessive heat. People aged 65 or older, however, are particularly susceptible to heat-related illnesses and complications.

Also, young children are vulnerable because they don't have the ability to understand they need to go inside. The most vulnerable types are those in recreational activities who are not accustomed to being in the heat all the time.

Q: At what point should a person affected by heat seek medical attention?

A: Because untreated heat exhaustion may

progress to heat stroke, medical attention is needed if symptoms worsen or last longer than one hour. You shouldn't ignore symptoms as seizure or collapse can follow. People should get out of the heat at the first sign of symptoms.