Health Department offers precautions as weather starts to heat up again

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Updated: October 29, 2011 12:43AM

As everyone knows, it’s not the heat; it’s the humidity.

Still, heat can be a formidable foe, and this weekend, temperatures could once again rise into the 90s.

The DuPage County Health Department reminds us that with a few precautions, there’s no need to let the heat get the best of us. It helps to bear in mind the major risks.

Dehydration: When more water leaves the body than you put back in, you risk becoming dehydrated. Avoid it by consuming plenty of liquids throughout the day, and drink extra fluids when exercising or simply being outdoors on hot days.

Heat exhaustion: Symptoms may include headaches, weak pulse, rapid pulse, excessive sweating and dizziness. In some instances there can be fainting, clammy skin, chills, cold, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps or very fast or very shallow breathing. If you suspect you have heat exhaustion, take action immediately to cool down. If possible, immerse yourself in cool water.

Heat stroke: Unlike heat exhaustion, victims of heat stroke have warm skin that is dry to the touch. This is because they’ve sweated out all their extra water, leaving the body’s natural cooling system without a key cool-down mechanism. High fever, severe headaches, nausea, vomiting and a strong, rapid pulse all accompany heat stroke. Victims may become confused and can lose consciousness. Heat stroke is a very serious condition. Take action to cool the victim and seek immediate medical assistance.

Knowing what to look out for is just as important as being prepared. Here are some tips from the Health Department to stay cool:

Always wear lightweight clothing that has plenty of ventilation; the fabric should “breathe.” Always be sure to consume an abundance of liquids in the summer to remain well hydrated.

Exercise or schedule other strenuous activities when the heat and humidity are lowest, usually early mornings and late evenings.

Rest in cool, shady places frequently. If you’re hot, go cool down: get indoors, drink cool liquids, enjoy the air conditioning for a few minutes, or take a cold shower.

Eat light, heart-healthy foods to replace minerals and nutrients that may be lost. Give your heart a little extra break during the summer months with a healthy diet.

Watch out for those at greatest risk such as very young children, the elderly and people who may have health conditions.

Certain medications may put you at greater risk of heat-related illnesses. Educate yourself in how medications may interact with the heat.

The Health Department can be found online at www.dupagehealth.org.

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