Medical experts say heat kills by overwhelming the body's two primary cooling mechanisms: the evaporation of sweat from the skin and the release of body heat from blood vessels near the skin. The cooling process is slowed by high humidity.
Age and chronic cardiovascular conditions can hamper the body's efforts to cool itself.
Heat exhaustion occurs when sweating leads to the loss of too much fluid and vital electrolytes. Victims experience nausea, vomiting, weakness, muscle cramps, headache or fainting. Those with cardiovascular disease can suffer heart attacks as their hearts struggle to deliver blood to the skin to cool.
Treatments include fluids and rest in a cool, shaded area.
If the body temperature exceeds 105, a person will experience heat stroke, characterized by dry, red skin, convulsions, disorientation, delirium, organ failure and death.
Dementia, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, dehydration and alcohol use can also increase the risk of heat-related illness.
To stay safe in the heat, experts advise drinking plenty of water or fruit juice, and avoiding alcohol, antihistamines and diuretics. Wear loose, light-colored clothing, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen and avoid direct sunshine. If possible, stay in air-conditioned areas and avoid strenuous outdoor activity.
frank.roylance@baltsun.com
