Inform issue 26 – Summer 2019

Your health
informonline.org.au
23
Getting too hot can be
dangerous, especially when
the person has trouble
communicating their discomfort
Whatever the reason, if you or a
person you are caring for are at
an increased risk from the heat
of summer, there are a number of
steps you can take to stay cool. It is
important to know the signs of heatrelated
distress, and how to avoid
it, as in extreme cases becoming
overheated can be life-threatening.
Signs of heat-related distress:
• Headache, nausea and fatigue are
all signs of heat stress
• Cool, moist skin; a weakened
pulse and feeling faint are all signs
of heat fatigue
• Thirst, giddiness, weakness, lack
of coordination, nausea, profuse
sweating, cold and clammy skin,
possible raised pulse, possible
contracted pupils and possible
vomiting are all signs that the body
is getting too hot, which is known
as heat exhaustion
• If not treated, heat exhaustion can
lead to heat stroke. Heat stroke
is life-threatening and immediate
medical attention is required.
Symptoms can include confusion,
combativeness, bizarre behaviour,
faintness, staggering, rapid pulse,
dry hot and flushed skin, lack of
sweating, possible fast, shallow
breathing and possible dilated
pupils. Later stages can include
delirium, seizures and coma.
Getting too hot can be dangerous,
especially when the person has
trouble communicating their
discomfort, so it’s important to know
the signs ahead of time, and to take
steps to remain cool during hot
weather.
Ways to stay cool in the heat:
• Stay hydrated. Sip on cool drinks
often. Water is best, but if you
prefer fruit juice then water it down
to improve hydration. Avoid drinks
with alcohol, caffeine or excess
sugar.
• Stay out of the sun during the
hottest part of the day, and if
you have to go out cover up with
loose, cool clothing and a hat.
Natural fibers such as cotton will
keep you cooler than polyester.
• Take a cool shower or bath, or
splash yourself with cool water.
• Identify the coolest room you have
access to ahead of time, so you
know where to go in the heat.
• Avoid turning on the oven or
stove, as this will introduce heat
into the house. Instead, opt for a
cool, fresh meal, such as a proteinrich
salad.
• Check in with others. If you know
someone who lives alone, or you
yourself live alone, check in with
others throughout heatwaves, to
ensure everyone is staying safe
and keeping cool.
Other things to consider include
checking medications to ensure
they are being stored at a safe
temperature, and putting them into
a cooler room or even the fridge if
it’s getting too hot inside the house.
If you are ever concerned about
how you will cope with the heat, or
whether a medication will affect how
your body responds to the heat you
should have a chat with a medical
professional, as they can help you
make a plan. If you are worried that
someone may be suffering from
heat-related distress, it is important
to seek medical attention urgently, as
heat-related distress can become lifethreatening
if not treated.
Please note the information supplied is
general in nature. Please consult your medical
practitioner for individual advice.