Temperatures continue to rise throughout the region, with Hood River County continuing to see days into the triple digits. Heat illness, or hyperthermia, is a serious and important medical issue to watch out for during these warm days.
Heat Illness
Mild to severe symptoms of heat illness can include: nausea, vomiting, sweating or dry skin, dry mouth thirst, fever, headache, muscle cramps, abdominal cramps, fatigue/exhaustion, rapid heart rate, weakness, diarrhea. If experiencing the above symptoms, it’s important that you:
- Move to a cooler or air-conditioned location
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Take a cold shower or use a cool compress
- Remove tight or restrictive clothing
Heat Stroke
Heat stroke occurs when an individual has a fever of at least 104 degrees and mental status changes such as disorientation, delirium, irritability, confusion, and seizure. If heat stroke is suspected, it’s important to call 911 immediately and move the individual to a cooler place and douse with or immerse in cold water.
Please keep in mind these symptoms as we work and recreate outside. It’s critical that we watch out for ourselves and those around us during this summer heat.
For more information on the warning signs of heat-related illness, visit here.