A Summer Safety Guide to Heat-Related Emergencies
Texas is known for its hot summers, making enjoying the great outdoors a staple for many residents and tourists. However, this year’s scorching weather is unprecedented, and we can’t overlook the impact intense heat can have on our health.
At Prestige ER, your well-being means everything to us, so we’re here to share some crucial tips about dealing with the sweltering heat and recognizing potential heat-related emergencies.
What Are Heat-Related Emergencies?
Heat-related emergencies occur when your body struggles to handle rising temperatures. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can stress our bodies, making us more susceptible to heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke, which can be fatal.
This summer, because of the extreme heat, ERs across Texas have seen an increase in visit rate of more than 30%, according to data from the CDC.
The agency also reports the following alarming nationwide statistics:
- 702 yearly heat-related deaths
- Over 9,235 hospitalizations due to heat
- An estimated 67,512 heat-related emergency department visits
Common Heat-Related Illnesses That Require Emergency Care
The escalating heat may lead to the manifestation of heat-related ailments, ranging from mild to life-threatening, including:
Heat Cramps: Muscular cramps may arise during vigorous physical exertion in elevated temperatures.
Heat Exhaustion: Characterized by heavy sweating, weakness, and dizziness. Left untreated, it can lead to potentially severe complications.
Heatstroke: An acutely severe condition, heatstroke requires immediate medical intervention. Symptoms include high body temperature, confusion, unconsciousness, and diminished perspiration.
Tips to Prevent Heat-Related Emergencies
We urge you to consider the following tips to counteract the relentless heat and prevent potentially dangerous health situations.
Stay Hydrated: Prioritizing adequate hydration is paramount. Consuming lots of water, even when you don’t feel thirsty, is advisable.
Dress Smart: Opt for light, loose-fitting garments that facilitate ventilation and reduce exposure to direct sunlight. Embrace sun hats and sunglasses as part of your heat-protection strategy.
Seek Shade: Taking refuge in shaded areas during peak daytime hours mitigates direct sun exposure.
Cooling Measures: Employing cooling strategies, such as fans, misters, and portable air conditioners, helps control body temperature.
Recognizing Warning Signs of a Heat-Related Emergency
Familiarizing yourself with the warning signs is vital. Early symptom recognition will help you seek prompt medical attention and avoid a tragedy.
Please seek immediate emergency care if you or someone else experiences any of the following symptoms:
- High body temperature exceeding 103°F
- Not sweating
- Confusion, dizziness, or loss of consciousness
- Difficulty breathing
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Extreme weakness
- Severe headache
- Chest pains
- Persistent or worsening symptoms
Prestige ER, Your Most Trusted Emergency Care Provider
While we hope you continue enjoying your summer, we urge you to prioritize your well-being and safety during challenging weather conditions.
Remember, heat-related emergencies are serious, but you can reduce the risks significantly with proper prevention and awareness.
As the premier emergency care provider in Plano and Mesquite, Texas, Prestige ER is here to assist you. Our skilled and knowledgeable doctors and nurses are wholly devoted to restoring your health and tranquility.
Prestige ER is Your #1 Choice During an Emergency.
#WeStayOPEN 24/7, through weekends & all holidays!
Prestige ER is honored to serve the residents and those passing through Plano and surrounding cities like Frisco and Allen, we hope that you have a lovely Summer 2018 filled with happy memories. By better understanding vehicular heatstroke and other emergencies, you will have a greater likelihood to prevent a trip to the ER. Please keep in mind that Prestige ER is Open 24/7 every day of the year, if you need us, we are here for you.
We are available 24/7 because an accident can happen at any time. Do not risk your health! Get help from the ER experts when you need it, visit us immediately in Plano and Mesquite.
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Find the ER Specialists at prestigeer.org, We provide the Best 24 HR. Emergency Medical Services in Plano and Mesquite. Don’t Wait in Line for ER Care! Don’t forget that WE STAY OPEN 24/7.
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