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The Signs and Symptoms of Heat Illness

Things are heating up this summer across the globe. 

Italy climbs over 40 C. Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany are also seeing temperatures soar, while wildfires still threaten parts of Canada and Greece. While weather networks have told Canada that although it’s hot now, the hottest part of summer is yet to come for parts of our country. 

So with the heat here and many of us wanting to enjoy our time in the sun, it’s important to know and be aware of the signs and symptoms of heat illness.

Yellow zone: Mild heat-related illness

  • Heat edema occurs when blood vessels dilate and blood accumulates in the hands and feet due to gravity, says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). People with diabetes, cirrhosis, and heart conditions are at a higher risk. The treatment is to elevate the swollen area to drain it. Watch for swollen ankles, hands, or feet.
  • Heat rashes occur when sweat glands get blocked or inflamed, so the CDC recommends keeping the rash area dry and applying powder to increase comfort.
  • Heat cramps happen when the body loses salt and water, and is treated by replenishing carbohydrates and electrolytes with a snack, water or sports drink. Watch for cramps in abdomen, arms, or calves.

Orange zone: Moderate to severe heat-related illness

  • Heat syncope, when someone feels light-headed after standing up, is treated with rest and relief from heat, sitting or laying down in a cool place, and slowly drinking water, clear juice or a sports drink. 
  • Heat exhaustion happens when you experience an excessive loss of water and salt, usually through sweating. It is treated by cooling down with cold packs, washing the head, face, and neck with cold water, and frequently sipping cool water. 

Red zone: Severe heat-related illness 

  • Heat stroke happens when the body’s cooling mechanism fails so you stop sweating, and internal temperature heats up. Emergency medical care is required at this point. It helps to cool down with cold water, an ice bath, and soaking clothes with cool water. 

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