NEWExperience the convenience of listening to Fox News articles!
According to the National Weather Service, the relentless heat wave that has been affecting the South for several weeks has now spread to the West, Midwest, and Northeast regions, impacting a significant portion of the U.S. population this weekend.
As air conditioners work overtime, there is a growing risk of power outages. This poses a serious threat to individuals with chronic health conditions, as well as young children and the elderly, who rely on moderate temperatures to maintain their well-being.
To ensure your safety and the well-being of your loved ones, it’s important to take additional measures beyond staying indoors and staying hydrated. Here are five health tips to help you stay protected:
EXCESSIVE HEAT BAKES CITIES ACROSS US AS MIDWEST, GREAT LAKES SEE THUNDERSTORMS
1. Familiarize yourself with the heat index in your area:
The heat index combines temperature and humidity to determine how effectively your body can cool down through sweating. Humidity affects the evaporation of sweat, making it harder for your body to dissipate heat. When the humidity is high, your body’s ability to cool off is compromised. A heat index above 80 degrees Fahrenheit can lead to heat-related illness, with temperatures expected to soar well above 100 degrees in the Northeast on Saturday. Stay informed and take necessary precautions.
SUMMER MELTDOWNS: HERE’S HOW EXTREME HEAT CAN AFFECT YOUR MOOD AND MENTAL HEALTH
2. Recognize the warning signs:
Heat-related illnesses can sneak up on you, so it’s crucial to be aware of the symptoms. Look out for muscle cramps, followed by heat exhaustion characterized by fatigue, lethargy, and heavy sweating. Thirst, dizziness, nausea, and headaches may also occur. If you experience any of these symptoms, find a cool location and hydrate with fluid and electrolyte solutions to replenish the sodium lost through sweating.
A homeless man sleeps under the sun in the Hollywood district of Los Angeles, on July 12, 2023. (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes)
HEART ATTACK DEATH RISK CAN DOUBLE DURING HEAT WAVES AND HIGH POLLUTION, STUDY FINDS: ‘A PERFECT STORM’
3. Learn to identify signs of heat stroke in others:
Heat stroke is a serious condition where the body’s temperature surpasses 104 degrees Fahrenheit. In heat stroke, sweating ceases, and the skin becomes hot and dry. This can lead to confusion, loss of consciousness, increased heart rate, and decreased blood pressure. If you come across someone showing signs of heat stroke, immediately call 911. While waiting for emergency personnel, move the individual to a shaded area and cool them down with water to prevent further complications.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION
4. Take extra precautions if you have a chronic illness:
Individuals with conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or those who work outdoors are particularly vulnerable to heat stroke. Obesity can also increase the risk of heat stress. It becomes crucial to stay mindful of the amount of fluid you are losing and understand how the heat affects you, especially in high humidity. If possible, avoid being alone in hot environments and have someone monitor you while you do the same for them.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
5. Be cautious with children and the elderly in hot cars:
Temperatures inside a parked car can rise rapidly, posing a grave danger, especially to older individuals and young children. Always ensure that they are in a cool and safe environment during extreme heat.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM DR. MARC SIEGEL
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
