JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas –
I'm sure you, too, have recognized the onset of summer here in Texas. Whether you call this home or are simply passing through, you must respect the risk that comes with the Texas heat, heat stress or heat-related disorders.
Heat-related deaths and illnesses are preventable, yet many people succumb to extreme heat annually.
Heat is the No. 1 weather-related killer. On average, more than 1,500 people in the U.S. die each year from excessive heat. This number is greater than the 30-year mean annual number of deaths due to tornadoes, hurricanes, floods and lightning combined.
In most cases, these mishaps are preventable, but first, we must understand heat stress and how to mitigate its threat.
"People suffer heat-related illness when their bodies are unable to compensate and properly cool themselves," said Maj. (Dr.) Patrick Keller, chief of the 559th Medical Operations Squadron Preventive Medicine Office.
"The body normally cools itself by sweating, but under some conditions, sweating just isn't enough. In such cases, a person's body temperature rises rapidly. Very high body temperatures may damage the brain or other vital organs.
"Several factors affect the body's ability to cool itself during extremely hot weather. When the humidity is high, sweat will not evaporate as quickly, preventing the body from releasing heat quickly," said Keller.
Other conditions related to risk include age, obesity, fever, dehydration, heart disease, mental illness, poor circulation, sunburn, and prescription drug and alcohol use, he added.
Some heat-related deaths are preventable. People need to be aware of who is at greatest risk and what actions can be taken to prevent a heat-related illness or death.
"The elderly, the very young, and people with mental illness and chronic diseases are at highest risk. However, even young and healthy individuals can succumb to heat if they participate in strenuous physical activities during hot weather," said Keller.
"People are most at risk when the weather changes, and when they start exercises they are not used to, in the heat. "Regular daily moderate exercise is nature's best medicine; it enables us to tolerate many different stressors," he added.
Immediate cooling is the No. 1 protective factor against heat-related illness and death. If a home is not air-conditioned, people can reduce their risk for heat-related illness by spending time in public facilities that are air-conditioned.
Summertime activity, whether on the playing field or the construction site, must be balanced with measures that aid the body's cooling mechanisms and prevent heat-related illness.
Here are some personal actions to consider when planning to work or play in extreme heat.
Drink plenty of fluids - don't wait until you get thirsty.
- Exercise regularly - build up slowly if you haven't been exercising.
- Replace salt and minerals - sport drinks help replenish needed nutrients.
- Wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen - light colored, loose-fitting clothes and a hat make a difference.
- Use the buddy or wingman system - focus on each other for early detection of the symptoms.
- Unfortunately, many people fail to heed the warning signs or take preventive measures. They allow themselves to become victims of heat stress disorders. These disorders typically begin with heat cramps, which are a symptom of heat exhaustion. If heat exhaustion remains untreated, it can progress to heat stroke and injury or death.
Warning signs of heat exhaustion include:
- heavy sweating
- paleness
- muscle cramps
- fatigue
- weakness
- dizziness
- headache
- nausea
- vomiting
- fainting
If you experience or see someone exhibit the signs of heat stress, take the following measures:
- provide cool, nonalcoholic beverages
- put the victim at rest and in the shade
- provide a cool shower, bath, or sponge bath
- move to an air-conditioned environment if possible
- remove excess clothing
If symptoms worsen or persist, you should seek medical attention. Remember to use good judgment when planning your summer activities and prepare accordingly. Otherwise, the Texas heat will take you down.
For more information on heat-related disorders, call the 559th MDOS's Preventive Medicine Office at 210-671-4087/85.