Kenwood - With Cincinnati under a heat wave, Rick Ryan, M.D., medical director, department of emergency medicine, Jewish Hospital; vice chairman and associate professor, department of emergency medicine, University of Cincinnati, says it's important to protect yourself against the dangers of heat-related illnesses.

"Three types of heat emergencies include heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which is the most severe of the three," says Dr. Ryan. "When the temperatures become intense, these conditions can rapidly advance from one to another. Children, the elderly and obese individuals are most at risk of suffering from heat-related illnesses."

Heat cramps are muscle aches caused by a loss of salt as the body attempts to regulate its temperature by sweating. Left unattended, heat cramps can be a beginning symptom of heat exhaustion, which develops as the body continues to become more dehydrated. Some of the symptoms most commonly identified with heat exhaustion include: cool or moist skin, dilated pupils, profound sweating, tiredness, headache and nausea or vomiting.

Heat stroke is the most serious of the three conditions. Heat stroke often is signaled by hot, dry, red skin. Victims of heat stroke also may exhibit signs of disorientation, experience rapid and shallow breathing or have a quick and weak pulse.

"Victims of heat illnesses should be removed from the sun and allowed to lie down in a cool area with their feet elevated," says Dr. Ryan. "Unless the victim shows signs of shock, water or salted beverages should be given to sip. Cool, wet cloths and fans can be used to lower the body's internal temperature. If the condition does not improve, seek immediate medical assistance."

According to Dr. Ryan, heat illnesses are preventable by taking the following precautions:

• Wear cool, light clothing
• Rest frequently if exposed to warmer temperatures
• Avoid drinking alcoholic or caffeinated beverages, as these promote further dehydration and disrupt the body's natural ability to regulate its internal temperature.
• Seek out cool environments during periods of intense heat.
• Drink plenty of fluids and make sure to check frequently on elderly neighbors or others who might be isolated and alone.

The Jewish Hospital is part of the Health Alliance, an integrated health care delivery system that also includes The Christ Hospital, The University Hospital, The St. Luke Hospitals, The Fort Hamilton Hospital, Drake Center, West Chester Medical Center and the physicians of Alliance Primary Care. To view other Health Alliance news releases, go to www.health-alliance.com/pressroom.

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