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1. A person who works in hot areas becomes acclimatized when that individual has daily exposure to heat stress for 3-6 weeks.
Fully acclimatized individuals nearly double their loss of heat by perspiring and therefore can dissipate heat more rapidly.
To aid in acclimatizing, sweet beverages are recommended to help keep energy levels up, as well as the consumption of salt
and potassium. Potassium is naturally found in citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruit), and also in bananas, potatoes,
and tomatoes. So, for example, a break of Coke and fries is a good way to beat the heat! [water, sugar, salt, and potassium]
2. Heat related illness comes in four stages, which can be progressive if not treated promptly.
a. Heat Cramps--skeletal muscle cramps caused by salt and water loss by profuse sweating. Oral consumption of water
and salt is recommended. Gatorade and similar products are helpful, just be aware that the citric acid in such products may
cause gastric distress. Calcium/Magnesium supplements are also recommended for the prevention and treatment of muscle cramps.
b. Heat Syncope--dizziness and fainting. Blood vessels become relaxed from the heat and so your blood vessel system
is unable to keep your blood in your head. Sit down. Consume water and salt. If this happens more than once, it is recommended
to take calcium/magnesium supplements frequently to decrease your chance of Heat Exhaustion (calcium and magnesium help keep
the heart muscle working well).
c. Heat Exhaustion--Occurs when the body's temperature reaches 103.5-104 degrees F. It may encompass heart cramps
and syncope, but is most characterized by altered mental status (the person afflicted is no longer able to think well). Other
symptoms include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, irritability, weakness, thirst, rapid heartbeat, and or rapid breathing.
The person who has heat exhaustion sweats profusely. This person should lay down in a cool quiet area, consume water and salt,
and not return that day to the heat and activity that brought on the heat exhaustion.
d. Heat Stroke--can be fatal. It occurs when the body temperature reaches 104-107 degrees F. The body is no longer
able to self regulate it's temperature and begins to shut down. Symptoms include all of the those listed for heat exhaustion,
except the afflicted person stops sweating. This person is very pale and likely confused or irrational. Fainting and seizures
are also common. Emergency Medical treatment is required to save this person's life.
3. Other helpful hints for people who work in hot environments: I like to remember the six essential ingredients in pairs
of two [salt and water; calcium and magnesium (tablets); & sugar and potassium (like Coke & fries)]. Hats and buddy-work
are also helpful techniques to limit heat stress.
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