Don't succumb to heat-related illness - ABC 33/40 - Birmingham News, Weather, Sports

Temperatures are expected to hit triple digits over the next several days.  The Alabama Department of Public Health advises the public to be alert to the warning signs of heat illnesses.

Heat-related illnesses occur when the body's temperature control system is overloaded.   Heat stroke, sometimes called sunstroke, is the most serious heat-related illness. It occurs when the body becomes unable to control its temperature. The body's temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cool down. Body temperature may rise to 106 degrees F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided.

People should drink plenty of water, stay in an air-conditioned room, and keep out of the sun. The public should also check on the elderly and ensure pets have plenty of water to drink and shade to cool off.

Warning signs of heat stroke vary, but include the following:

·        An extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees F)
·        Red, hot and dry skin (no sweating)
·        Rapid, strong pulse
·        Throbbing headache
·        Dizziness
·        Nausea
·        Confusion
·        Unconsciousness

First aid recommendations are to get the person to a shady area, cool rapidly in a tub of cool water, place in a cool shower, spray with cool water from a garden hose, splash with cool water, or, if the humidity is low, place in a cool, wet sheet and fan vigorously. Monitor body temperature and continue cooling efforts until the person's body temperature drops to 101 to 102 degrees F.

Follow these preventive measures to avoid heat illnesses:
·        Drink more fluids, and avoid beverages containing alcohol or caffeine.
·        When temperatures are extreme, stay indoors, ideally in an air-conditioned place.
·        Take a cool shower or bath, and reduce or eliminate strenuous activities during the
hottest times of the day.
·        Protect yourself from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat, light-colored, loose-fitting
clothing and use of a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher.
·        Never leave pets or people in a parked vehicle.

Individuals with heart problems, poor circulation, diabetes, a previous stroke or obesity are at greater risk of becoming sick in hot weather. The risk of heat-related illness may increase among people using medications for high blood pressure, nervousness or depression.

Heat illnesses can lead to death. According to the Alabama Center for Health Statistics, the total numbers of heat-related deaths in Alabama in recent years are as follows: 2011 - 8,  2010 - 9, 2009 - 3, 2008 - 8, and 2007 - 13. In the heat wave of 1980, there were 125 heat-related deaths recorded in the state.