How to Prevent Heat Stress

Heat Stress is most common amongst people exposed to higher temperatures for an extended period. The human bodies have less resilience when exposed to higher temperatures. Due to this, it is not advisable to spend long hours under direct sunlight during excessive heat. Higher temperatures cause the heart rate to increase even walking at a slow pace.

Heat stress occurs mostly when the body temperature scores above 40.5-degree centigrade. At this temperature, the internal system of the human body begins to shut down and causes dehydration and fatigue. One may also suffer tissue damage. There are several reasons behind heat stress apart from direct contact to high temperatures.

Places with a lack of airflow and poorly ventilated working areas may also be a significant cause of dehydration. A human body is said to cool down itself through excessive sweating. This process requires the body to be well hydrated at all times. A dehydrated body might not sweat much and may keep the body temperature higher. Severe diarrhea or vomiting, drinking too much alcohol, strenuous exercise during hot weather and not drinking enough water may lead to dehydration.

There are many ways to know that one is suffering from a heatstroke. The warning signs may include one or several symptoms like high body temperature, red, hot skin, dry and swollen tongue, headache, nausea, fatigue, increased heart rate, unconsciousness, etc. It would be ideal for the person experiencing some or any of the above symptoms to seek a medical professional’s help.

There are several ways of preventing possible heatstroke. During hot summer days, reducing excessive exposure to sunlight may be considered. In case if stepping outside is essential, choosing routes with an ample amount of shade would help. All this is possible through proper planning. Also, wearing light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing might be a great idea to beat the heat. Coupled up with a hat, UV protecting sunblock cream and sunshades would add a great touch while outdoors. It might even add to making your fashion statement.

To avoid dehydration, drinking plenty of water and other non-alcoholic fluids may help, even though you don’t feel thirsty. Keeping an ample amount of hydration during excessive heat is always beneficial. While indoors, areas that are well-ventilated with an adequate amount of air circulation are still helpful. Using wet towels and taking cold showers are a great way to beat the heat.

In extreme cases, the use of cooling vests may be a quicker way of cooling a person exposed to extreme temperatures. Organisations having manual labour working outdoors at excessive heat use this method. Heatstroke if not avoided, may become a life-threatening emergency. Older people, children, and women with pregnancy are mostly at risk of heat stress. With all the precautions mentioned above, avoiding heat stress may be more manageable.