Prioritize hydration and shade as extreme heat and high humidity levels continue heading into the Labor Day weekend.
That according to Cookeville Regional Emergency Department Medical Director Samantha McLerran. McLerran said the human body loses critical moisture during heat exposure which can lead to dehydration and a dangerous increase in internal body temperature. McLerran said these conditions can quickly escalate.
“The key is the confusion and the altered mental status,” McLerran said. “If you’re out in the heat with someone and they have progressed to that point whether they’re sweating or not. A lot of people, like old wives’ tales being out here in the country, they’ll say ‘well, if they’re still sweating, they’re fine.’ You can be in a heatstroke and still be sweating.”
McLerran said individuals should drink water regularly before they feel thirsty and utilize electrolyte solutions if they are outdoors for extended periods. McLerran said anyone experiencing a headache or muscle cramps should immediately move to a cool environment and begin the cooling process.
“Don’t wait to start cooling those people before they call for help,” McLerran said. “Go ahead start the cooling process and don’t try to give someone who’s altered or confused water by mouth um because they could aspirate it. So hydrate frequently and often. Don’t think that um Gatorades or drinks like that are the same thing as water. Water for most people is a good starting point and then if they’re out in the heat longer, then go to an electrolyte solution.”
McLerran said early warning signs of heat-related illness include heavy sweating, thirst, and muscle cramps in the arms, legs, or abdomen. McLerran said the risk is particularly high for vulnerable populations including children, the elderly, and those with chronic medical conditions like heart or lung disease.
“It’s the heat index that is much more telling on our population,” McLerran said. “Our young athletes that are going back to school. I saw Tech was training their football team today and they were doing it starting at 10:00, 10:30. So we’re facing those athletes out in the grueling sun, no shade, we don’t know how acclimated they are to it.”
McLerran said certain medications can increase a person’s sensitivity to heat and advised patients to consult with their doctors rather than stopping their prescriptions. McLerran said those without access to air conditioning should seek out public spaces like libraries or churches to stay cool during periods of unrelenting heat.