Take caution as heatwave hits
It is important to keep hydrated as the heatwave rages on.
There has been abnormally hot weather these past few days, and it feels like it is worsening.
The high temperatures remind us to take better care of ourselves and each other because they present a health risk to all.
Heat exhaustion is a heat-related illness that usually occurs after a person is exposed to high temperatures for a prolonged period.
Heat exhaustion is the mildest illness, with heat stroke the most severe. Heat exhaustion presents differently for everyone, but there are common symptoms to look for.
The symptoms of heat exhaustion:
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Heavy sweating
• Nausea and vomiting or diarrhoea.
It is crucial to look for these signs when anyone gets sick to help them as soon as possible. Getting the person out of the hot environment and into a cool area is a start.
Other treatments include having them drink lots of liquids to replace what they have lost. Make sure to avoid caffeine and alcoholic drinks.
Other tips include:
• Remove any unnecessary clothing.
• Give those affected a cool sponge bath or have them take a shower.
• Provide the sick person with fans or damp towels to help cool them down.
If the person does not get better or continues to get worse after 15 minutes of intervention, seek immediate medical attention because untreated heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke.
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