Local health experts warn the dangers of heat exhaustion and heat stroke
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - As the Desert Southwest gets ready to experience one of the warmest weeks so far this year, local health experts warn us about the dangers of heat-related illnesses.
We shared what locals can do to prevent, identify, and treat heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Heat related illnesses become more common during the Summer as temperatures soar and outdoor activities increase.
We spoke with Chief Nursing Officer Bryan Alvin Bautista at Exceptional Community Hospital who says prevention is always the best choice.
He reminds locals to stay hydrated.
"I cannot stress enough the importance of water… Nothing can beat that," Bautista shared.
Whether it's to get some fun in the sun or summer camp for sports, the dangers are never far away.
The most common heat related illness is heat exhaustion.
"It would be things you can find commonly that would happen to you when you are tired, but this time around the cause of it will be heat," Bautista says.
Symptoms include muscle fatigue and cramping, heavy sweating, and dizziness.
If gone untreated it can lead to a more extreme illness, heat stroke, which is mostly common among very young or very old people.
Bautista tells us how to spot when a heat stroke is setting in.
"You'll find yourself having a massive headache, all around your cranium, and because you have sweat too much, you'll find yourself not sweating anymore, it means that you have run out of water inside you. The first thing you need to do is grab the phone and call 911," explains Bautista.
In extreme cases, heat stroke can lead to death and is harder to treat for people who suffer from chronic illnesses like high-blood pressure or diabetes.
Thats why planning ahead is always strongly encouraged.
"Remember, you live in the sunniest place on earth, right? Lots of water, sunblock would help, stay indoors, and if you want to go somewhere, choose indoor. I believe here in Yuma we have lots of options!," says Bautista.
The Yuma County Sheriff's Office doubles down.
In a recent press release, they state that no matter your age or how long you've lived in Yuma, none of us are immune to heat related illnesses. They also share information about Yuma County water and cooling sites and their Are You Okay program, click here to learn more.
Health experts say the best actions to take in the case of a heat related illness would be to get out of the heat, apply a wet towel to cool the body, and rehydrate immediately.
