Art-84

Summer Exposure

By Rosemary Skinner SRN

This month I am continuing on one the possible hazards of a hot climate. Heat Stress or Hyperthermia. This article is aimed at people who are not normally exposed to excessive heat. Holiday makers in a warmer climate or those fortunate Europeans exposed to a heat wave. This type of exposure is described as Heat Stroke

A major cause of distress is the person’s lack of knowledge of the psychological changes that take place, how to prevent serious problems and how to treat them as they arise. A word of caution! Excessive heat of the body frequently causes death. Medical attention should be sought if in any doubt. Figures from the U.S. suggest that over 40% of Heat Stroke victims may die.

Those at risk include adults and children who have taken exercise in hot weather, and who have not maintained their correct fluid levels. Low physical fitness levels, lack of acclimatization, and low blood pressure are some of the contributing factors. Often overlooked is alcohol intake. Alcohol causes loss of fluid, which of course places the drinker at a greater risk

Symptoms include raised body temperature (106 degrees f), dizziness, warm flushed skin, confusion and delirium.

Treatment. Keep the person cool. Dampen clothing and exposure to a breeze. Plenty of water, initially least two litres. I would of course use “Magnetic Water”. Total immersion in cold water should only be carried out under medical supervision. After recovery I would suggest sleeping on a Serenity Magnetic Overlay. A “Magnetic Headband” dampened with cold water has been used by myself and found to offer great relief.
©Rosemary Skinner2006