Heat Stroke

Beat the Heat With the temperature starting to rise it is important to consider how the heat will impact our bodies. In order to protect ourselves from heat stress we first need to understand what heat stress is, what are the symptoms and how can we protect ourselves. There are several factors such as age, weight, and health conditions that will make you more susceptible to heat stress. Living in Alabama during the hot humid summer, heat stress is not only a concern at work but at home as well.

What is Heat stress?
When your body is exposed to high temperatures and humidity it becomes stressed and is unable to properly cool itself. As a result, you are vulnerable to heat induced illnesses such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Heat cramps
Heat cramps are muscle spasms which usually …show more content…
Typically your blood vessels and capillaries act as an internal air conditioning unit, when it’s hot, they enlarge to keep your blood cool. When an individual is suffering from heat exhaustion the blood vessels collapse due to loss of body fluids. This happens when you don't drink enough fluids to replace what you've lost.
Heat Stroke
Heat stroke occurs when the body has depleted its supply of water and salt. The body’s temperature will rise to lethal levels. . It is a medical emergency and can lead to death. In many cases an individual will suffer from heat cramps or heat exhaustion before progressing to heat stroke. It is very important to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat stroke because immediate medical attention is necessary.

What are the Symptoms of Heat Stress?
The symptoms of heat exhaustion include headache, heavy sweating, intense thirst, dizziness, fatigue, loss of coordination, nausea, impaired judgment, loss of appetite, hyperventilation, tingling in hands or feet, anxiety, cool moist skin, weak and rapid pulse, and low to normal blood