OP-ED: Heat stroke is no joke
By Tim Frost on June 20, 2020
As states begin to relax stay-at-home COVID-19 restrictions, populations on lockdown are flocking outside – just in time for summer. As the mercury rises, however, so do reports of heat-related illnesses. Heat can trigger exhaustion and heat stroke, and, like COVID-19, can exacerbate underlying conditions like cardiovascular, respiratory, kidney or mental diseases.
Heat stroke develops quickly and is a life-threatening emergency. The condition occurs when the body is exposed to excessive heat and produces or absorbs more heat than it can release, causing the body’s temperature to climb. The condition can affect anyone, but young children and the elderly are most vulnerable. Additionally, people who work outdoors, persons with mental illness or obesity, and those taking certain types of medications or drinking alcohol are also at higher risk for heat-related illness.
Before you head to the beaches and barbecues this summer, the folks at AMR suggest reviewing the symptoms of heat stroke, how to prevent it, and what to do if you suspect it in yourself or a loved one. The adverse health effects of hot weather are largely preventable through good public health practice, while also following the advice to protect yourself from coronavirus.
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