Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Cool Down in Summer Heat


According to Mayo Clinic, heatstroke can be a life-threatening heat-related problem. Older adults are at high risk as are those people suffering from dehydration, alcohol use, cardiovascular disease and certain medications.

If you or someone you know shows any of these signs, heatstroke may be the problem:

Rapid heartbeat
Rapid and shallow breathing
Elevated or lowered blood pressure
Hot and dry skin
Irritability, confusion, unconsciousness
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Headache
Nausea
Fainting

Move the person out of the sun and into a cooler place.
Call for emergency assistance.
Cover with damp sheets or spray with cool water.
Blow cooler air onto the person.
Encourage water.

For more about heatstroke, heat exhaustion and other first aid topics, visit 50somethinginfo.com. It's better and more thorough than ever.





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