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Healthy Choices Summer 05 of fluids frequently to start rehydrating. At this level of heat illness, the person may require cardiac monitoring, oxygen and intravenous fluids. • Heat exhaustion: The treatment regimen at this stage is the same as with syncope. Signs and symptoms to look for indicating a person has reached heat exhaustion include weakness, dizziness, irritability, headache, nausea, vomiting and profuse sweating. • Heat stroke: This has now become an emergency situation. The person will require immediate attention. During heat stroke, the body is in a hyperthermic state. That means the entire body undergoes an inflammatory response that results in organ dysfunction and even organ damage. People with heat stroke have stopped sweating, have a core temperature higher then 104 degrees Fahrenheit, and are typically in a disoriented state. In addition to calling 911, you want to reduce the core body temperature by moving the person to a cooler environment. Monitor airway, breathing and circulation until emergency personnel arrive. To assist with cooling, try cooling fans and mist and cold packs to neck, armpits and groin. Check with emergency personnel before giving fluids. Stay safe in the summer heat and humidity by hydrating properly and wearing breathable clothes. Minimize time spent in strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day, and always be aware of the early signs of heat illness, so you avoid progressing to a more serious level. Staying active is still important, even during the hot summer months. Here are some ways to keep cool and active: • The city recreation facilities offer a variety of indoor options, including pickleball, basketball, fitness equipment and group fitness classes. These areas are much cooler than being outside, though you should still dress appropriately and hydrate as you can still overheat inside. • Walk the mall. Westfield Countryside Mall at 27001 U.S. Hwy. 19 N., offers a fun and different way to get some walking in. The sights are interesting, the temperature is cool, it is open seven days a week, and you may be able to meet up with other “mall walkers” who want to stay active and stay inside to avoid weather concerns. • There is no shortage of parks, playgrounds and trails in Clearwater. Some locations offer more shade than others, and if using facilities in the morning or evening, you may be able to avoid the extreme heat. • Water activities, whether at beautiful Clearwater Beach or in one of the city pools, offer a much cooler option for activity. Paddle board, wave surfing, swimming laps and water aerobics/walking can be full body workouts, fun for the whole family and much “cooler” than land activity. No matter how you stay active, remember to stay safe by hydrating, use sun protective measures and monitor yourself and others when it comes to avoiding heat-related illnesses. For more information on healthy activities going on in Clearwater, go to myclearwaterparks.com and click on the “Healthy Choices for a Healthy Clearwater” link under programs.


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