| Simmer Down and Stay Alive - CDC | |
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What kills more Americans annually than hurricanes, lightening, tornadoes, floods, and earthquakes combined? According to the Centers for Disease Control, we just get too hot.
During 1979-1998, 7,421 deaths due to excessive heat exposure occurred in the United States. Currently, an average of 300 people die every year in America from exposure to heat.
Extreme heat may be even more dangerous this year because of energy shortages in many parts of the country. With air conditioning providing the most protection from heat exposure and heat-related deaths, CDC analysts worry that many people will avoid using air-conditioners in order to avoid high utility bills.
"Such action can place people who are already at risk for heat illness at increased risk," stated CDC officials. "Areas of the country currently facing energy crises may experience a higher-than-average rate of heat-related illness."
According to CDC, recognizing the warning signs of heat illness and awareness of persons at special risk is vital. "Older Americans and young children are at particular risk for heat illness," said Health and Human Services Secretary Tommy G. Thompson. "This summer take a few extra minutes to check on your neighbors, friends, and family to ensure their health and safety."
Heat illness occurs whenever the body cannot compensate for excessive heat by cooling itself naturally by sweating. The evaporation of sweat cools the skin allowing the body to release heat quickly. When the humidity is high, sweat ceases to evaporate and the body's natural cooling system slows down, eventually shutting down completely. Other conditions related to risk include age (the elderly and young children), obesity, fever, dehydration, heart disease, mental illness, poor circulation, sunburn, prescription drug use, and alcohol use.
When the body goes too long without being able to regulate its temperature, Heat Stroke can occur. Body temperature may rise to 106 degrees F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided. Warning signs of heat stroke vary but may include the following: an extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees F); red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating); rapid, strong pulse; throbbing headache; dizziness; nausea; confusion; and unconsciousness.
A milder form of heat illness, heat exhaustion can develop after several days of exposure to high temperatures coupled with reduced or unbalanced intake of fluids. The warning signs of heat exhaustion include: heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, and fainting. The skin may be cool and moist. The pulse rate will be fast and weak, and breathing will be fast and shallow. If heat exhaustion is untreated, it may progress to heat stroke. The elderly, people with high blood pressure, and people working or exercising in a hot environment are most susceptible to heat exhaustion.
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