As the temperature reached into the upper 80’s this past week while we were camping I was reminded of the illnesses brought on by the heat; heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat strokes. All of which are preventable with the proper intake of the right fluids. Unfortunately, most of what we drink is not suitable for replenishing the salt we loose in the heat: coffee, tea, soft drinks and alcohol.
Heat cramps are muscle contractions in arms, legs and stomach. Also, accompanied by heavy sweating and extreme thirst. At the first sign of cramps the victim should be moved to a shady area and clothing loosened. Give large amounts of cool water. Watch and continue water. Get medical attention if cramps persist.
If not caught in time the next stage is heat exhaustion where the symptoms include heavy sweating with pale, moist cool skin; headaches, weakness, dizziness and or loss of appetite; heat cramps, nausea (with or without) vomiting, rapid breathing, confusion, tingling of hands and/or feet. Again, the victim should be moved to a cool shady area, and loosen or remove clothing. Next, pour water on victim and fan to increase cooling. Have victim drink lots of water slowly and elevate legs for better circulation. Get medical attention.
The most serious of the heat illnesses is heat stroke. At this stage sweating has stopped, the victim is red and his/her skin is hot. Get medical help immediately. Move victim to cool, shady area and loosen or remove clothing. Start cooling victim immediately. Immerse victim in water and fan. Massage extremities and skin and elevate legs. If conscious, have the victim drink plenty of water.
As I stated earlier, most of us don’t drink the fluids our bodies need while camping and enjoying outdoor activities. Please leave these drinks alone and replace them with drinks such as Propel or Gatorade depending on your activity level. For more useful information please visit our website www.Campsite190.com.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment