Remember the days of running around the back yard for hours on end in the summer months when you were a kid? No cares in the world…and then you get a cramp in your side just as you’re about to kick a grand slam home run for your kickball team. Why did this cramp just appear you ask? It’s from the heat – it was the start of heat exhaustion which could lead to heat stroke.
When you were a kid, you always had an adult around to make sure you were drinking enough water during those hot summer days. When you become an adult and get busy during the day with work, you might forget to replenish those fluids but that’s where the trouble can begin.
Yesterday, OSHA released information on their current campaign to prevent heat illness in outdoor workers. The campaign (http://osha.gov/SLTC/heatillness/index.html) focuses on workers and how they should be protecting themselves during the hot months of spring and summer. Yes, sometimes the work has to get done but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be watching out for #1 – yourself. Keep in mind, there are certain groups that are more susceptible to illnesses from the heat – older adults (65+), young children, and people who are already sick or overweight.
What kinds of illnesses are the result of staying in high heat environments for too long? Well, there are a few and many of you have probably been victim to at least two of them. Heatstroke, Heat Exhaustion, Heat Cramps and Heat Rash.
Heatstroke happens when you body temp rises above 106 degrees F. This can be very dangerous especially if treatment is not sought. Symptoms of heatstroke include dry skin, strong pulse, dizziness, nausea and confusion. If you or someone close to you have the symptoms for heat stroke, follow the following while medical assistance is being called:
- Get the victim to a shady area.
- Cool the victim rapidly, using whatever methods you can. For example, immerse the victim in a tub of cool water; place the person in a cool shower; spray the victim with cool water from a garden hose; sponge the person with cool water; or if the humidity is low, wrap the victim in a cool, wet sheet and fan him or her vigorously.
- Monitor body temperature and continue cooling efforts until the body temperature drops to 101-102°F.
- If emergency medical personnel are delayed, call the hospital emergency room for further instructions.
- Do not give the victim alcohol to drink.
- Get medical assistance as soon as possible.
Heat exhaustion can sometimes precede heatstroke but in extreme temperatures, your body may directly go into heat stroke. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, rapid breathing, tiredness and a fast, weak pulse. What can you do to cool down the body during heat exhaustion?
- Drink cool, nonalcoholic beverages.
- Rest.
- Take a cool shower, bath, or sponge bath.
- Seek an air-conditioned environment.
- Wear lightweight clothing.
The last two illnesses cause from excessive heat is something most people have dealt with: heat cramps and heat rash. People who sweat a lot during strenuous activity are prone to heat cramps. This sweating depletes the body’s salt and moisture. The low salt level in the muscles causes painful cramps. Heat cramps may also be a symptom of heat exhaustion. If you have heart problems or are on a low-sodium diet, seek medical attention for heat cramps. If you have a cramp, stop whatever strenuous activity you were doing and drink a sports drink. If the cramp is not gone within an hour, medical attention should be sought.
Heat rashes are a skin irritation from excessive sweating and should be kept as dry as possible. Powder can be used to increase your comfort.
What is the best clothing for workers during the hot months? As per the CDC, “Wear as little clothing as possible when you are at home. Choose lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. In the hot sun, a wide-brimmed hat will provide shade and keep the head cool. If you must go outdoors, be sure to apply sunscreen 30 minutes prior to going out and continue to reapply according to the package directions. Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool itself and causes a loss of body fluids. It also causes pain and damages the skin”.
The OSHA campaign shows pictures of workers specifically in fields but keep in mind – all construction workers are at risk for heat illnesses. Also, maintenance workers such as AC repair workers having to go into attics are also at risk.
Do the right thing this summer. Protect your most important resource – you.