The forecast shows much of Oregon could see temperatures above 100 degrees this weekend. Heat waves can seriously harm older people, infants and children, those who live or work outdoors, are pregnant, or who have low incomes or a chronic medical condition. It’s particularly important to know the difference between heat exhaustion, which is treatable by finding a cooler location and drinking water, and heat stroke, which requires emergency medical attention. Heat exhaustion is the body’s response to an extreme loss of water and salt, usually through excessive sweating. It most often affects older people, people with high blood pressure and those working in hot environments. Symptoms can include headache, nausea, dizziness, irritability, decreased urine output and more. Heat stroke is potentially fatal and occurs when the body is unable to regulate its own temperature. The person can’t sweat, and the body is unable to cool down. Body temperature can rise quickly—to 103°F or higher within 10-15 minutes. Symptoms can include confusion, altered mental status, slurred speech, increased pulse, loss of consciousness, seizures and more. Call 911 immediately if someone is experiencing signs of heat stroke and move them to a cooler location. Do NOT give the person anything to drink. Tips to prevent these and other heat-related illnesses: Drink plenty of fluids even if you are not thirsty, regardless of your activity level, especially when working outside. Avoid alcohol or liquids containing a lot of sugar, because they can make your body lose water. If you don’t have an air conditioner, visiting friends with an air conditioner or going to free cooling centers in your community can help you stay cool. Fans alone will not provide enough protection from extreme heat. Wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothing. If you are an employer or work in extreme heat, check out the heat illness prevention information from the state’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Avoid eating hot foods and heavy meals. Never leave infants, pets or children in parked cars. Try to limit your outdoor activity to the morning and evening hours when it’s cooler. More extreme heat resources can be found at 211.org. For heat advisories and more tips visit our Extreme Heat webpage.
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