Safety - Heat Exhaustion/Heat Stroke
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Heat Exhaustion/Heat Stroke
Personal health and well being should be a concern of all activities
of daily living. This includes those activities that are done for
recreational enjoyment. Though often not encountered, there are
some health hazards that have potential exposure for those visiting
our lands. To become familiar with these hazards, click on the following
links for an in depth explanation of the process, potential for
exposure, and safety measures.
For more information on health related hazards see also:
Lyme Disease
Hantavirus
Hypothermia and Frostbite
Heat Exhaustion/Heat Stroke
Heat exhaustion typically occurs when excessive activity is done
in a hot, humid place, causing the body to have excessive loss of
fluid. Vital organs began to lose blood flow because blood flow
is diverted to the skin.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion are prolonged sweating, paleness, clammy
skin, nausea, muscle cramps, headache, dizziness, weakening of the
body and extreme fatigue. The body will lose fluids, which can cause
an electrolyte imbalance. This imbalance can cause the person to
collapse or have a heat stroke.
With a heat stroke, the person sweats very little or not at all.
There is a rapid pulse, flushed skin and a decrease in mental status.
The temperature of the body increases to 104 F rapidly. Treatment
involves seeking medical attention immediately, moving the person
to a cool area, loosen clothing, application of wet cloths, and
encouragement of intake of fluids if conscious. This should be done
until the body temperature drops to 101 F.
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can be prevented. Care should be
taken to plan activities in temperatures that are not extremely
hot and taxing on the body. Wear clothing that allows the body to
breath and intake air. Drink plenty of fluids while conducting any
activity in heated conditions. It is recommended that a quart of
fluid is consumed every hour. Schedule plenty of time for rest breaks
within the planned activity period.
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