In more northern parts of the country, its starting to cool down in the evening and the days are becoming more bearable.  But in the south and southwest, temperatures are still climbing into the 90’s on a regular basis, and the sun’s rays can still be punishing -- both in terms of skin damage and raising body temperature.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) almost 400 people die each year of heat-related illnesses.  While extreme temperatures place the very young and very old at the greatest risk, heat exhaustion and heat stroke can affect people of all ages. 

Consider, for example, what happened to 34 year old actor-comedian Martin Lawrence during a hot spell in California recently.  After piling on some extra clothes, Lawrence went jogging in the summer heat and very nearly died of heatstroke.  He collapsed in front of his home and lapsed into a coma.  Paramedics recorded his temperature at 107 degrees Fahrenheit and immediately rushed him to the Emergency Room where he was treated for acute hyperthermia. 

Lawrence, who jogs every day, was apparently trying to lose some weight for an upcoming movie role but nearly lost his life instead.   After four days, he came out of the heatstroke-induced coma, and doctors were encouraged that he would not need kidney dialysis as earlier feared.  He is expected to recover. 

While young actors are not normally on the list, those at greatest risk for heat-related illnesses include the homebound elderly -- especially those without air conditioning or fans; people whose jobs keep them outdoors; people who take certain drugs (e.g., some tranquilizers, antidepressants or antihistamines, as well as some drugs used to treat Parkinson’s Disease); infants; those who are overweight; and the chronically ill. 

According to the National Disaster Education Coalition, the duration of excessive heat is directly related to the number of people affected by heat-related illnesses, with the highest impact occurring when the heat lasts more than two days.  An extreme heat watch, by the Coalition’s definition, is when temperatures are 10 or more degrees above the average high temperature for the region, last for prolonged periods of time, and are accompanied by high humidity.  Hey! They just described Houston in July, August, and often September. 

Actually, a heat wave is no joking matter.  When the body cannot cool itself or is overwhelmed by the heat, symptoms may progress rapidly and -- if not properly treated at once -- advance to a potentially life-threatening condition as it did for the young actor.  Under normal circumstances, a person’s body temperature is kept under control by perspiration and evaporation on the skin.  When this system breaks down or is overwhelmed, a wide range of symptoms can occur, starting with heat cramps.  Athletes training in summer months often experience episodes of cramping if they sweat profusely or don’t take in enough fluids and salt.  The cramping is usually relieved by resting in a cool place, fluid (water) replacement, and eating salty foods.  Liquids with caffeine in them can cause further dehydration and can make the situation worse. 

A more potentially serious heat-related illness -- heat exhaustion -- can come on very quickly.  In addition to an elevated body temperature, an affected person might experience a rapid heartbeat, feel lightheaded, nauseated, and cold and clammy to the touch, and suddenly become pale.   Prompt response is mandatory to prevent heatstroke.  The important thing is to bring down the body temperature as fast as possible.  Get the person to a cool area at once, lay them down after loosening their clothing, apply a cool cloth to their face, neck and wrists, and elevate their legs.  Have them drink cool (not cold) water or an electrolyte-containing beverage, and watch them carefully.  They should begin to feel better with their temperature coming down within a half hour. 

If a heat victim does not respond to preliminary first aid efforts, get emergency help immediately.  If their temperature climbs to 105 F, and their skin becomes hot and dry time is really of the essence.  Other symptoms of heatstroke include rapid heartbeat, shallow breathing, dramatic shifts in blood pressure -- up or down --  and a sense of confusion.  While waiting for the emergency team, get the victim to the coolest area possible, begin sponging them down with cool water, or place them in front of a fan.  If the victim refuses water or is vomiting, or if they should lose consciousness, do not give them anything to eat or drink. 

Keep Your Cool...

Any one who has lived through a Texas summer soon develops some common sense ways to avoid heat-related illnesses.  Even if your home is not air conditioned, there are usually places you can go to get out of the heat during the hottest part of the day, such as shopping malls, libraries and other air conditioned community facilities.  Plan to avoid any strenuous activities during midday, and drink plenty of fluids.  Be sure to check on any homebound elderly neighbors or family members during a heat wave. 

Listen to your body.  Slow down when it’s hot, and avoid getting too much sun.  Dress appropriately and stay indoors when you can.  If your car has been sitting in the sun, try opening the doors, turning on the ignition and air conditioning, and waiting for a few minutes before you get in.  Experts point out that temperatures inside a closed vehicle can reach over 140 degrees F within minutes and the sudden shock of getting into this super-heated air can raise your body temperature in a hurry.  Never leave children or pets in closed vehicles...ever; exposure to these extreme temperatures can kill in minutes. 

When it comes to avoiding heat-related illnesses, the best defense really is a good offense ...and your own common sense.  And, in this case, it could just save your life. 

Want more information? 
Visit http://www.redcross.org/disaster/safety/guide/heat.html