PHOENIX — Heat was the underlying or contributing cause of 1,600 deaths in the United States. Of that number, nine states accounted for more than 75% of those deaths.
For reference, that's more than 50% higher than the previous year, so Arizonans need to be aware of the signs of heat-related illnesses. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, by knowing what to look out for, these deaths can be dramatically reduced.
First, heat exhaustion is different from heat stroke. Heat exhaustion will lead to heat stroke, which is more severe and left untreated, can end in death.
The Mayo Clinic lists characteristics of heat exhaustion as:
- Heavy sweating
- Rapid pulse
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Moist skin with goose bumps
People will also experience muscle cramps, nausea and headaches. These symptoms can be the result of over-exposure or prolonged exercise. And they can progress suddenly.
Ways to treat heat exhaustion include getting out of the sun, removing tight clothing, placing ice packs in the armpit and groin area, as well as misting the body. It's imperative to drink plenty of water to rehydrate the body and avoid drinks with alcohol, sugar or high amounts of caffeine.
If these symptoms are not curbed, heat stroke may set in causing your body temperature to climb to 104 degrees. Immediate emergency care is needed to prevent damage to your brain, heart and kidneys.
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