When it gets hot in the summer, people do not always realize that they are in danger of getting sick simply by being out in the sun for too long. They do not always remember to rest, drink water or wear protective clothing, especially if they are out having fun. The most common result of this behavior is heat exhaustion, a serious condition that can cause your body to shut down to protect itself.

Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are two most prevalent conditions that can occur during times of temperature extremes. Both of these maladies can strike without warning and are caused by prolonged exposure to direct sun, especially if you wear no protective clothing on your head. The percentage of either condition occurring if you shield yourself from direct sun is far lower, so wearing a hat, or using an umbrella to protect yourself from the sun's rays has proven to be very effective in preventing these serious conditions from affecting anyone's fun in the sun.

During heat stress, the body begins to lose its ability to cool itself down, especially if you have been sweating a lot and not taking in enough fluids to compensate for that loss. Exhaustion signs include pale skin that is cold or clammy to the touch, weakness, feelings of anxiety and fatigue, and a slow pulse. Eventually, you collapse, and unless aided, you may advance into the next stage, heat stroke. The first signs of heat stroke are a high fever and hot, dry, red skin, primarily around the face. This is usually followed by nausea, vomiting, headaches and dizziness, unless the body is cooled down as soon as possible.

First Aid Measures for Heat Stress

If someone begins to show signs of heat stress, get them into shade immediately, to begin with. Loosen clothing and apply cold or wet compresses to the skin, especially on the pulse points on either side of the neck, the forehead, back of the neck and wrists. Try to get them to drink water, if possible, ice chips if they cannot. Check their pulse and if it is slow, they should rally after an hour in the shade, with plenty of water and shade.

If their pulse is rapid and they have trouble focusing, they may have advanced into the first stages of heat stroke. Call an ambulance, continue with the water and cold compresses, and if they feel faint, have them lie down with their legs elevated. Advanced heat stroke can cause blood pressure to drop dangerously low, and lying with their legs elevated will increase the flow of blood to the heart and brain until medical help can arrive.

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