Over seven thousand people died from heat exhaustion between 2008 and 2018 according to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Most heat-related deaths or health conditions are avoidable if patients and those around them are able to correctly recognize the warning signs your body exerts when it start to overheat. For parents of children who participate in sports and those who engage in physical activity throughout the summer months in Atlanta, consider the following information that can save your life and those you love.
Tips to Avoid Heat Exhaustion
The following information can help parents and athletes avoid the negative effects associated with heat exhaustion:
- There are two specific types of heat exhaustion classified by The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Water depletion and salt depletion.
- Water depletion refers to conditions where someone experiences extreme thirst, sudden tension headaches, and a loss of consciousness.
- Salt depletion refers to conditions where someone experiences nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps, and a loss of coordination or stability.
- Heat exhaustion has the ability to cause heat stroke, which can lead to brain and organ damage.
- Sunscreen, wearing protective layers of clothing, and drinking plenty of water when exposed to significant heat can help prevent heat exhaustion.
Treatment For Heat Exhaustion
The Atlanta orthopedic doctors at AICA Orthopedics recommend using or applying particular cooling solutions such as fans or ice towels to avoid heat exhaustion, as well as to help cool down your core temperature if you start to feel any related symptoms. It is also recommended to avoid consuming beverages that contain high amounts of caffeine or alcohol, as well as avoiding tight clothing.
The Mayo Clinic reports that children under the age of four and seniors over the age of 65 are more vulnerable to heat exhaustion. Those who are overweight or considered to be obese are also susceptible to heat exhaustion and should actively consume water whenever exposed to significant temperatures. As the summer weather continues to arrive in Atlanta, it’s imperative that athletes and workout enthusiasts pay close attention to their body and any particular warning signs it may produce. Although heat exhaustion is a normal reaction to your body overheating, it does have the potential to cause other severe conditions that can permanently affect your health or kill you. This summer, make sure to consume plenty of liquids and be safe when heading outside.
