Sports players, construction workers, and others who frequently labor for long hours outside may run the risk of suffering a heat-related illness, especially during the hot summer months. It is extremely important for these individuals to take the necessary breaks to cool down, rest and rehydrate. If they fail to do so, of if they are unable to do so, then they may be putting themselves at risk of suffering from a potentially dangerous heat-related illness.
Heat illnesses arise when the body cannot maintain its normal temperature. Typically, the body rids itself of excess heat through sweating and moving blood flow close to the skin. When it cannot dump heat fast or efficiently enough, its temperature rises above normal and can even reach dangerous levels.
In order to maintain a safe body temperature, those working in extremely hot conditions should take enough breaks as necessary to ensure that they do not overheat. If possible, these periods of rest should be spent in cooler, shadier environments. Liquids such as water and electrolyte-infused beverages should be consumed regularly in order to maintain hydration and replace the minerals lost through sweating.
Types of Illnesses Caused by Heat
The body will go through several stages of heat illness before it enters a life-threatening condition. Typically, they progress in the following manner:
· Heat Rash: Itchy and red skin caused by too much sweating – the sweat ducts can swell or become blocked, which results in surface irritation
· Heat Cramps: Cramped muscles caused by too many minerals and too much water lost through sweating
· Heat Exhaustion: Overheating of the body, resulting in weakness, heavy sweating, pale skin, dizziness, high blood pressure, nausea and vomiting
· Heat Stroke: Occurs when the body has reached a dangerous temperature (104-105 degrees Fahrenheit), resulting in confusion, hot and dry skin, vomiting, difficulty breathing, a strong and fast pulse
Heat stroke is by and far the most dangerous of these conditions. If the body is left untreated while suffering from this condition, then the victim may die. It is extremely important for those exhibiting signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke to get out of the heat immediately. The body’s fluids should be replenished and medical attention should be sought.
Contact Us
If you would like to learn more about heat-related illnesses, or if you have suffered from one as the result of another person’s negligence, then the New York City personal injury lawyers of Orlow, Orlow & Orlow can help. Visit http://www.newyorkcity-personalinjury.com/ with any questions, inquiries or concerns you may have.
Joseph Devine
Here the husband of Sylvia Kibet, the 2009 world championship silver medallist at 5000, talk about the workout she was doing on June 28, 2011 as well as the progress she’s made since coming back from being hospitalized. More info here: www.letsrun.com
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