Kansas Heat Advisory Issued: Use Caution
By: Kansas Department of Health and Environment
Updated: June 25, 2012
TOPEKA, KS--- All Kansas residents should be informed of local weather conditions by staying connected with local news and weather channels. Elderly people, infants and children, and people with chronic medical conditions are more prone to heat related stress and injuries. Everyone drink plenty of cool, nonalcoholic beverage regardless of activity level to help prevent heat injuries. Air-conditioning is the number one protective factor against heat-related injuries and death. During conditions of extreme heat, spend time in locations with air-conditioning such as shopping malls, public libraries, or heat-relief shelters in your area. Even short periods of high temperatures can cause serious health problems or heat related injuries. It's important to know the symtoms for signs of illness and heat injuries.
Be aware of these common symtoms and treatments:
Recognizing Heat Rash- Heat Rash looks like a red cluster of pimples or small blisters. It is more likely to occur on the neck and upper chest, in the groin, under breats and in elbow creases. Best treatment is to provide cooler, less humid environment. Keep affected area dry. Dusting powder may be used to increase comfort. Treating heat rash is simple and usually does not require medical assistance. Other heat-related problems can be more sever.
Sunburn- consult a doctor if the sunburn affects an infant younger than 1 year of age or if these symtoms are present: fever, fluid filled blisters, severe pain. When treating general sunburn avoid repeated sun exposure, apply cold compresses or immerse the sunburned area in cool water, apply moisturizing lotion (don't use salve, butter, or ointment), and do not break blisters.
Heat Cramps- usually affect those who sweat a lot during strenuous activity. Heat cramps can also be a symptom of heat exhaustion. Heat cramps are muscle pains or spasms usually in the abdomen, arms or legs. If you have heart problems or are on a low sodium diet, get medical attention for heat cramps. If medical attention is not necessary, take steps to stop activity and sit in a cool place, and drink clear juice or a sports beverage.
Be aware of these common symtoms and treatments:
Recognizing Heat Rash- Heat Rash looks like a red cluster of pimples or small blisters. It is more likely to occur on the neck and upper chest, in the groin, under breats and in elbow creases. Best treatment is to provide cooler, less humid environment. Keep affected area dry. Dusting powder may be used to increase comfort. Treating heat rash is simple and usually does not require medical assistance. Other heat-related problems can be more sever.
Sunburn- consult a doctor if the sunburn affects an infant younger than 1 year of age or if these symtoms are present: fever, fluid filled blisters, severe pain. When treating general sunburn avoid repeated sun exposure, apply cold compresses or immerse the sunburned area in cool water, apply moisturizing lotion (don't use salve, butter, or ointment), and do not break blisters.
Heat Cramps- usually affect those who sweat a lot during strenuous activity. Heat cramps can also be a symptom of heat exhaustion. Heat cramps are muscle pains or spasms usually in the abdomen, arms or legs. If you have heart problems or are on a low sodium diet, get medical attention for heat cramps. If medical attention is not necessary, take steps to stop activity and sit in a cool place, and drink clear juice or a sports beverage.
