Just hours before the Fourth of July holiday, a ‘long, dangerous heat wave’ is sweeping across the central and eastern United States. Temperatures are expected to reach 105 °F (40.5 °C), according to the National Weather Service. Rising temperatures are raising concerns as US President Donald Trump hosts a celebration of America’s 250th birthday and several World Cup matches are being moved out.In the United States, hundreds of people die due to heat-related illness. According to the CDC, heatstroke can cause permanent disability or death if the person does not receive emergency treatment. As extreme conditions are likely to persist over the festive weekend, it is important to follow some safety guidelines, especially if you are going out in the heat.
Assess heat conditions before heading out
Before heading out, check for warnings issued by the National Weather Service in your area. Symptoms of heat illness can vary from person to person, Bharat Venkat, director of the University of California, Los Angeles Heat Lab, told the AP. The risk of heatwave depends on each person’s tolerance, how accustomed you are to heat, and the duration of exposure. Therefore, an absolute temperature at which heat becomes dangerous cannot be stated. Humidity also plays a role. If it’s a very humid day and there is no wind, you may be at greater risk even if the air temperature is lower.
Pre-hydrate and re-hydrate
If you’re spending time outside, it’s important to pre-hydrate. “Have a glass of water or a sports drink before you go out,” Momin, of Memorial Hermann Health System, told NPR. Houston Methodist Hospital physician Neil Gandhi stressed the importance of carrying plenty of water when going out. He suggests drinking water throughout the day. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty. “The moment you start feeling thirsty, you are already 10 to 25% dehydrated,” the doctor said.Water is the best fluid for hydration. There is no need for electrolytes under normal circumstances. You may want to save them for activities that require physical effort or if you’re sweating a lot. UNICEF suggests drinking water at regular intervals and carrying a water bottle with you when going out.
High-risk individuals should take extra precautions
Although heat waves can affect anyone, some people are more vulnerable than others. According to the NHS, people aged 65 or over, infants and young children under the age of 5, and pregnant women are at increased risk. People with long-term conditions such as heart problems, breathing problems, dementia, diabetes, kidney disease, Parkinson’s disease, mobility problems, mental health problems, or drug or alcohol addiction are also at higher risk. People taking multiple medications should also take extra precautions. If you are already sick from diarrhea and vomiting or are dehydrated, you should also be cautious. People who do physical labor should also take extreme caution.
be aware of the symptoms
Heat-related illnesses can be serious and even life-threatening. According to the CDC, heat stroke is the most serious condition. This happens when the body cannot control the temperature. Within 10 to 15 minutes of heatstroke, body temperature can rise to 106°F or higher. Therefore it is important to know the symptoms. Confusion, altered mental status, slurred speech, loss of consciousness, seizures, high body temperature, hot, dry skin or excessive sweating are symptoms of heat stroke. If treatment is delayed it can be fatal.Heat exhaustion is caused by excessive loss of water and salt through sweating. People may experience headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, thirst, heavy sweating, and high body temperature.
wear protective clothing
It is important to protect your skin when you go out in the sun. Wear light clothes that protect from sunlight. Loose fitting clothes are best in this summer season. Avoid anything too tight, as sweat gets trapped in it. Feel free to wear a hat and apply sunscreen to protect your skin from dangerous UV light. If possible, buy yourself a portable handheld fan, or a cooling vest.Following these simple steps can help you stay safe and enjoy the festive weekend.