By Tom Mark

Be Sure To Beat The Heat

Aug 3, 2017 | 6:46 AM

Interior Health is advising people to be extra aware of the heat the next while.

Temperatures will hit the mid 30’s maybe even a degree or two higher.

We’ve talked about it recently, but medical health officer Dr.Sue Pollock reminds us that while you might worship it

“Too much heat can be harmful for your health. Illness can result when the body gains heat faster than it can cool itself down. This can lead to weakness, disorientation and exhaustion.”

You need to be aware of the symptoms.

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“Often, heat related illness will start with the individual having very pale, cool and moist skin. They may be sweating very heavily. They may experience muscle cramping, swelling, fatigue and weakness.”

Confusion, disorientation and hallucinations can result if you’re not careful

Dr. Pollock says it is easily preventable.

“That would be moving to an indoor environment that has air conditioning. That may be in their own home if they have air conditioning or in a public facility like a mall. They should drink plenty of cool, non-alcoholic fluids and also planning outdoor activity around the cooler time periods of the day.

That would be before 11 am or after 4 pm.

Those most at risk are:
– Infants and children up to four years of age who rely on adults to make sure their environments are comfortable and provide them with enough fluids.
-People 65 years of age or older who may not compensate for heat stress efficiently and are less likely to sense and respond to high temperatures.
Healthy individuals who do a lot of physical activity or work in a hot environment.
-Those with heart problems and breathing difficulties.

by Tom Mark