Mahaska Health Partnership Advises on Heat Exposure
Mahaska Health Partnership
MAHASKA COUNTY – With summer sport practices starting up and the first day of school on the horizon, the hot summer days can be a concern for children. Family Practice Physician Case Everett offers ways to stay cool in the summer heat and how to recognize the symptoms of heat exhaustion.
“Heat exhaustion occurs when your body can’t keep itself cool,” Dr. Everett explained. “Your body can overheat when exercising or from simply spending too much time in the warm weather, then becoming dehydrated. It’s important to plan ahead to avoid overexposure to the elements.”
According to Dr. Everett, the symptoms of heat exhaustion may be hard to detect. “You may experience extreme sweating, nausea, muscle cramping, headache, a fast heartbeat or feeling weak and confused. Many of these symptoms can be confused with regular sweat and exertion from activity, but don’t hesitate to cool off if you experience any of these reactions during a workout or hot day.”
One of the biggest factors in avoiding heat exhaustion is proper hydration. “There are two types of heat exhaustion; one caused by water depletion and one caused from salt depletion,” Dr. Everett explained. “It’s vital that you stay hydrated for any activity where your body is heating up. Take regular breaks for a drink during activities and pack a water bottle for students if it’s going to be hot in the classroom. Water and sports drinks with the proper electrolyte balance are the best options for keeping your body nourished on a hot day.
“Along with hydration, wearing dri-fit clothing is a great option for keeping your skin dry and protected from the elements. Use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least 30 SPF and wear a hat and sunglasses. If you’re going to be outside walking, wearing a camelbak water pack can help your back stay cool while also keeping you hydrated!”
If you do get overheated, it’s important to get out of the heat and cool off immediately. “As soon as you see symptoms of heat exhaustion, stop whatever activity you are doing and seek shade,” Dr. Everett urged. “If at all possible, get inside with air conditioning and take it easy until your body can recuperate. Drink plenty of water or other hydrating fluids, but avoid caffeinated beverages.
“Try removing any tight or extra clothing to cool off quicker,” Dr. Everett continued. “A cool shower or even a cool washcloth can help. If you aren’t feeling better within 30 minutes, contact a medical professional. If heat exhaustion develops into heat stroke, it becomes an urgent medical situation that can cause damage to the brain and other organs.”
Another great way to make sure students are protected this fall is through a school sports physical. Mahaska Health Partnership will be offering reduced rate sports physicals through August in Oskaloosa. Physicals are walk-in only, no appointment necessary. Students can receive their physical in Oskaloosa from 9:00 am – 8:00 pm on August 12 and 15. Each physical costs $20, with the proceeds being donated back to the athlete’s school.
“A sports physical will make sure students are healthy for school activities, while hydration and other sun protection methods will keep them safe during sport practices and events,” Dr. Everett said. “All of these steps are vital in keeping students happy, healthy and ready for whatever may come their way on and off the field!”
Family Practice Physician Case Everett, MD, practices fulltime at the MHP Medical Group, providing primary care to all ages and also delivering babies. Dr. Everett is originally from New Sharon and is passionate about serving his home community. For an appointment with Dr. Everett, call 641.672.3360.
Mahaska Health Partnership, located in Oskaloosa, is a non-profit health system accredited by the Joint Commission. It is guided by its mission to provide exceptional customer service and health improvement, linking the science of medicine with the humanity of compassionate care. For more information about how Mahaska Health Partnership is making healthcare personal, visit mahaskahealth.org.
