summer heat Archives - On Call Medical Clinic

Summer Heat

Summer Heat -We all love to get out and work in the yard, start a building project outdoors, or just relax in the sun during the summer months. We however forget to always prepare ourselves for the sun’s rays and heat. Hyperthermia, (heat-related illness) is common when we overdue it. We at On Call Medical Clinic want to make you aware of what the illnesses can be from becoming overheated as well as the symptoms to be on the lookout for.

Hyperthermia is overheating of the body. This occurs as a result of heat exposure. Here are heat-related illnesses.

Heat Stroke
Heat Exhaustion
Heat Cramp
Heat Syncope (fainting)
Heat Rash

Heat Stroke is the most severe of all heat-related illnesses and this requires immediate medical attention.

The elderly, infants and young children, the obese, outdoor workers, and those with chronic medical conditions are at increased risk.

Signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses vary based on the condition, but they include the following

An elevated body temperature
Headaches
Nausea
Weakness
Dizziness
Fainting
Muscle Cramps
Seizures
Confusion
Coma

Treatment includes moving the individual out of a hot environment. Implementing cooling measures, rest, and rehydration.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, there were 7,415 deaths due to heat-related illnesses in the USA from 1999 to 2010, which is an average of 618 deaths per year. So, become overheated is not something to take lightly.

The key to preventing heat-related illnesses is proper planning and preparation. Taking in increased amounts of fluids, wearing appropriate clothing and sunscreens are always helpful.

If you have any of the above heat-related symptoms, we at On Call Medical Clinic are here 7 days a week to help. Please call us at 228 818-5155, one of our medical staff is ready to answer your call and set up an appointment. You are also welcome to visit our website at www.oncallclinic.com to review all the medical services we offer.

Summer Heat – Should We Worry About It?

summer heat

We all like to get out and enjoy the Summer and do all kinds of fun summer daily activities like swimming, boating, fishing, going to a waterpark, and just sitting around sun bathing. But sometimes we can overdo it and not realize we have been over exposed to the summer heat.

What should you be aware of that may be signs of overexposure to the Summer Heat?

Here are 8 signs that you have overexposure to the heat.

Heavy Sweating-though if heat stroke sets in, the body can no longer compensate and stop sweating
Pale Skin
Muscle Cramps
Felling Tired and Weak
Altered Mental Status (confusion or disorientation)
Headaches
Becoming Semi-Conscious or Passing Out
Nausea or Vomiting

If you recognize heat-induced illness, the first thing you need to do is call 911.If you can without help or with someone get quickly out of the sun and into a cool area. An air-conditioned area is ideal.

Next apply water to help cool off. Also, apply ice to the neck and armpits. Remove any heavy clothing.

And finally immerse the body in cool water, either in a swimming pool or a bathtub.

Temperatures in the 90s and higher are dangerous. They become more dangerous the higher they go and the longer they last. When enjoying a great summer day be aware of the summer heat and be cautious.

We at On Call Medical Clinic like you look forward to the Summer. We hope that this information was helpful. If you feel like any of these warning signs are present for you are someone with you, feel free to call us. We are open 7 days a week and our trained medical staff is ready and prepared to help when heat overexposure occurs.

Please call us at 228 818-5155 if we can help. Also, please visit our website at www.oncallclinic.com to learn about all our medical services. We have onsite excellent laboratory and diagnostic equipment to quickly uncover what your condition may be.