The high temperatures over the past few days have resulted in 13 out of 15 Arizona counties to be under an Excessive Heat Warning. Exposure to these temperatures can put you at additional risk for a heat-related illness. Most vulnerable are adults age 65 and older, those who work or exercise outdoors, infants and children, the homeless, low income families, and people with a chronic medical condition or people on certain medications. We encourage you to learn the symptoms and first aid response for heat-related illness.
Two common types of heat-related illness are heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat exhaustion symptoms may include heavy sweating, weakness, clammy skin, weak pulse, nausea or vomiting, and fainting. If you or someone you know is experiencing heat exhaustion; first move them to a cooler location, lie them down and loosen clothing. Apply cool, wet cloths to as much of the body as possible. Have the affected person sip water slowly. If the affected person vomits and it continues, seek immediate medical attention.
The most severe form of heat-related illness is heat stroke, also known as sunstroke.
By learning these symptoms and what to do, you may be able to prevent a medical emergency for yourself and others.
