Dealing with a heatwave

Facing temperatures over 100° this summer, Moorcroft’s family nurse practitioner Laura Richins shares a few warning signs of trouble and tips to keep the kids and ourselves safe from overheating and risking the serious consequences of heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

According to Richins, “Most often, this happens when people exercise in very hot or humid weather without drinking enough fluid, but it can also happen to people who are not exercising. People who are older, those with health problems, young children and babies need to exercise additional caution in hot conditions. Most importantly, people need to know that heat stroke is considered a medical emergency that needs to be treated quickly, as it can lead to death.”

Richins continues, “When people get too hot, they can also get what is known as heat cramps or heat exhaustion, and although these conditions are not as serious as a full heat stroke, they can lead to heat stroke if they are not treated. Some symptoms of heat stroke are a body temperature of 104 degrees or higher, brain symptoms such as confusion, trouble thinking clearly, hallucinations, trouble walking, passing out or even seizures. Heatstroke can also cause fast breathing, fast heartbeat, skin redness and warmth, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, muscle cramps and weakness.”

“Heat stroke can be prevented by following some simple precautions,” she advises. “Try not to be too active and take frequent breaks when you are exercising in hot weather; drink enough fluids such as water or sports drinks so that you do not feel thirsty, but do not drink very large amounts in a very short time, do any exercise early in the day before it gets too hot out, wear loose and lightweight clothing and minimize layers and avoid being in a hot car for a prolonged period of time.”

The old adage, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is a good way to keep safe and have great summer when the high temperatures visit.

Keep sunscreen on throughout the day, reapplying every couple of hours and more often if sweating or swimming; drink plenty of water with electrolytes during the day instead of alcohol (including beer, wine or liquor), soda, coffee or black tea as these all are, to varying degrees, diuretics.

Consider an afternoon siesta; this is, in fact, a very practical way to keep safe during the hottest part of the day and has been in practice for a very long time. One does not have to take a nap (although – why not?), just taking it easy inside until the worst of the heat has passed can make for a more enjoyable time outside.

Wyomingites know that summer temperatures are like winter temperatures, respect protects everyone as we play and work. With these tips, we will enjoy a safe and fun season.