Washington, DC – As temperatures soar into the 100s today, the DC Department of Health (DOH) reminds residents of the importance of staying healthy in the heat. Extreme heat can cause many medical conditions such as heat exhaustion and stroke; therefore residents are advised to take caution when outdoors in high temperatures. In order to avoid heat-related sickness, all Washingtonians are advised to take caution and drink plenty of fluids every 30 minutes and avoid direct exposure to high temperatures for longer than two hours.
Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heatstroke that may develop due to a combination of several days with high temperatures and dehydration in an individual. Signs of heat exhaustion include extreme weakness, muscle cramps, nausea, headache, heavy sweating, paleness and dizziness. Heat exhaustion is treated with plenty of liquids and rest in a cool, shaded area. Those on a low-sodium diet or with other health problems should contact a doctor.
Heat stroke is a serious illness characterized by a body temperature greater than 105 degrees. Symptoms may include dry red skin, convulsions, throbbing headaches, disorientation, chills, delirium and coma. Onset of heatstroke can be rapid: a person can go from feeling apparently well to a seriously ill condition within minutes. Treatment of heatstroke involves the rapid lowering of body temperature, using a cool bath or wet towels. This is a true medical emergency - call 911 if you or someone you know is experiencing heat stroke.
Heat stroke is a serious illness characterized by a body temperature greater than 105 degrees. Symptoms may include dry red skin, convulsions, throbbing headaches, disorientation, chills, delirium and coma. Onset of heatstroke can be rapid: a person can go from feeling apparently well to a seriously ill condition within minutes. Treatment of heatstroke involves the rapid lowering of body temperature, using a cool bath or wet towels. This is a true medical emergency - call 911 if you or someone you know is experiencing heat stroke.
Groups at greatest risk for heat-related illness:
- Infants
- Children up to four years of age
- People who are overweight
- People who are ill or on certain medications
Groups at greatest risk should be monitored carefully, and their environments should be regulated. The CDC recommends that adults at greatest risk be closely monitored and visited at least twice a day to view for possible signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Infants and young children should also be closely monitored. DOH Tips for Staying Healthy and Cool in the Heat:
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid drinks with caffeine, alcohol, and large amounts of sugar.
- Wear clothing that is loose-fitting, light colored and breathable, such as cotton
- Dress infants and children in cool, loose clothing and shade their heads and faces with hats or an umbrella
- Limit sun explosure during mid-day hours and in places of potential severe exposure such as beaches
- Wear sunscreen with 30 SPF of higher
- Schedule outdoor activities carefully
- Do not leave infants, children, or pets in parked cars
- Provide plenty of fresh water for your pets, leave the water in a shady area
- If you do not have access to a cool-temperaure location, visit the District recreation center, library, or senior center closest to you
If you suspect that you or someone you know is experiencing a heat related illness, please call 911. For more information, visit http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/heat_guide.asp