Do you know the signs & symptoms of heat stress?

With the hot summer weather in Perth, many of us enjoy the greater outdoors, beach and waterways. We all know that we need to slip, slop, slap to protect our skin but the summer heat can still be a source of heat related illness.

While many of us will sit under an umbrella for protection or go for a swim to cool off, the water doesn't protect our skin but the summer heat can still be a source of heat related illness. Heat stress occurs when the body can’t cool itself to maintain a healthy temperature of 37 degrees. When it is very hot you may be at increased risk of heat stroke. Babies, young children and the elderly can be at increased risk.

Symptoms of heat stress include:
· Tiredness and lethargy
· Headache
· Dizziness
· Feeling faint
· Muscle cramps
· Feeling thirsty
· Urinating less often

Signs of heat stress include:
· Excessive sweating or no sweating
· Dark urine
· Pale skin

If you suspect someone has heat stress encourage them to rest in a cool space, remove excess clothing, drink plenty of water, and use a wet towel to cool them (ice packs under their underarms), and seek medical attention.

On hot days always suspect heat stroke if someone acts disoriented or collapses suddenly and doesn’t recover when they are lying flat with their legs elevated.

Enjoy the summer sun and fun, but remember to stay well hydrated and protect yourself from the sun’s harming rays.