Beat the Heat, Part 1
Summer is here and we have a few important things for you to keep in mind to help “Beat the Heat” and how Feed the Need Missions is going to help the communities we serve.
According to an article from the City of Houston Health Department, people die each year from extreme heat. And some suffer from serious physical illnesses because of the high heat and humidity in Texas.
Here are a few physical illnesses to watch for during extreme heat temperatures:
- HEAT EXHAUSTION is the body’s response to an excessive loss of the water and salt contained in sweat. The most prone to heat exhaustion are the elderly, people with high blood pressure and people working or exercising in high heat. The symptoms of heat exhaustion include: heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting and fainting. The skin may be cool and moist. The victims pulse rate will be fast and weak and breathing will be fast and shallow. If untreated, heat exhaustion may lead to heat stroke.
- HEAT CRAMPS usually affect people who sweat heavily during strenuous activity. Sweating depletes the bodies salt and moisture. Heat cramps may also be a symptom of heat exhaustion. Heat cramps are muscle pains or spasms, usually in the abdomen, arms or legs, that may occur in association with strenuous activity. If the person has heart problems or is on a low sodium diet, medical attention is necessary.
- HEAT STROKE occurs when the body becomes unable to control its temperature. The body temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails and the body is unable to cool down. Body temperature may rise to 106 degrees or higher in ten to 15 minutes. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not given quickly. The victim is unlikely to complain due to the confusion caused by heat stroke therefore it is very important to notice if changes in mental status occur.
If you experience any of these please seek emergency help immediately.
What is Feed the Need Missions doing to help “Beat the Heat”?
Join us the second week in July at a site closest to you for watermelon and popsicles! Come cool off with us with a sweet treat and, of course, a free meal.
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