Sure, we’re all concerned with the pandemic. But it’s important to keep the rest of our wellness in check, including protecting ourselves from dangerous heat-related illnesses.
BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – COVID-19 has been at the forefront of our minds the past few months and has taken over our everyday lives. And rightfully so, as the pandemic has touched or impacted someone we know or love. Being caught up in everyday panic, it’s easy to lose sight of other important health-related issues.
Now is when heat-related illnesses should also be top of mind. We’re all too familiar with Florida’s summer heat bringing scorching temperatures every year, and this year is no different, especially during COVID-19. Heat and humidity aren’t only unbearable and uncomfortable but dangerous if we’re not careful.
And being proactive is must. Heat stroke, rashes, cramps and exhaustion are just a handful of some serious, common heat-related illnesses.
“As our lives have and are continuing to change because of COVID-19, it’s still important that we take charge of our health and maintain a level of safety when exposed to the summer heat,” said Dr. Timothy Laird, Associate Chief Medical Officer with Health First Medical Group.
One way in taking charge is knowing the symptoms of heat-related illnesses. Knowing what to look for and what to do is important, so be on the lookout for the following vital indicators, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
HEAT STROKE
What to look for: High body temperature (103 degrees or higher); Hot, red, dry or damp skin; Dizziness, nausea or headache
What to do: Call 911 right away – heat stroke is a medical emergency; Move the person to a cooler place; Do not give the person anything to drink
HEAT EXHAUSTION
What to look for: Heavy sweating; Cold, pale, clammy skin; Nausea, vomiting or muscle cramps; Fainting (passing out); Fast, weak pulse.
What to do: Move to a cool, private place (but have someone there to help you, should you need it); Lose your clothes; Put cool, wet cloths on your body or take a cool bath; Sip water; Get medical help right away if you are throwing up, symptoms get worse or last longer than one hour.
HEAT RASH
What to look for: Red clusters of small blisters that look like pimples on the skin; Typically on the neck chest, groin or in elbow creases.
What to do: Stay in a cool, dry place; Keep the rash dry; Use baby powder to soothe the rash.
“Like most outdoor activities, sun moderation is recommended to help avoid some of these heat-related illnesses, as well as protecting your skin and overall health,” Dr. Laird said.
We know some of you are tired of staying inside because of COVID-19 and are itching to go outside and have fun. But be safe and smart in doing so.
Remember to look out for heat-related illnesses, practice sun safety, drink plenty of fluids while outside and find cool places as a break from the heat. However, if the heat begins to take a toll on your body, please seek medical attention.
Health First hospitals are here to serve you at any of our four hospital locations.
Hospital information and directions can be found on our website at HF.org and by clicking on the locations and directions tab.
September 03, 2020 at 11:12AM
https://spacecoastdaily.com/2020/09/health-tip-covid-19-or-not-dont-forget-to-safeguard-against-scorching-summer-weather/
HEALTH TIP: COVID-19 or Not, Don't Forget to Safeguard Against Scorching Summer Weather - SpaceCoastDaily.com
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