Alberta Health Services (AHS) is reminding people to be vigilant this summer when protecting themselves against heat-related illnesses.
The Bonnyville area has already been under a number of heat advisories this summer, and precautions are important to enjoy the summer months.
AHS medical officer of health May Ahasingal explained that heat stroke is on the extreme end of what can result from being outside during hot days, and some cases can be severe.
“We see people who are very dehydrated at that point of the illness,” he explained.
People with heat stroke experience confusion, a slow heart rate, nausea, vomiting, flush skin, and can lose consciousness as it progresses.
A milder version of heat stroke someone may endure is heat exhaustion. Symptoms such as headaches, weakness, dizziness, and nausea are signs that something is up.
Ahasingal noted, “Heat exhaustion is often a precursor to heat stroke.”
Certain age groups are more susceptible to heat-related concerns, such as infants and older adults with pre-existing health conditions.
“Heart problems make it difficult for them to handle the temperature,” Ahasingal explained.
He stressed that people who work outdoors are at a high-risk for developing heat-related illnesses, and suggested taking water breaks on hotter days as a preemptive measure.
Ahasingal strongly advised against being inside of vehicles without air conditioning on hot day.
He also stressed the importance of not leaving children alone in a vehicle for any amount of time.
“It takes a short amount of time for a vehicle to heat up,” he expressed.
The best ways to avoid developing heat stroke is to stay cool and hydrated all summer.
Ahasingal suggested following his rule of thumb: urinate every couple of hours while doing an activity outside, and check the colour to ensure you’re staying hydrated.
“The colour of the pee should be clear to a pale yellow if you’re hydrated,” he explained. “If it’s a dark yellow, you’re probably close to or already dehydrated.”
Having a cold shower, heading to air conditioned areas, and wearing clothing that can protect you from direct sun exposure, such as a hat or long-sleeved shirt, can go a long way in preventing heat-related illnesses.
Along with heat stroke, a heat rash can develop after too much exposure to the sun. Ahasingal explained that this can develop when the sweat ducts in the skin get blocked, resulting in an uncomfortable, itchy rash.
Anyone experiencing symptoms they believe could be heat exhaustion or stroke can call the AHS Health Link number at 811 to speak directly to a nurse. They will inform the caller on what to do next, and where they can go if symptoms are extreme.
