LIFESTYLE NEWS - In response to the heat wave the Western Cape is currently experiencing Western Cape Government Health issue the following guidelines to help prevent heat stroke and exhaustion:

Note:

• Babies, the elderly and people working or exercising in a hot environment are at particular risk for heat stroke/exhaustion.
• People using chronic medication need to drink extra water during heat waves to ensure that their kidneys are not further stressed.

General prevention:

• Stay out of the sun if at all possible, if not, wear a large hat to protect the head from the sun or use an umbrella to add shade.
• Use a small wet towel or cloth under hats or on shoulders to help keep cool
• Stay hydrated - in the current temperatures, staying hydrated is most important - drink as much water as you need;
• Always carry water with you
• Should you use a chronic medication remember that becoming dehydration places extra stress on the kidneys, drink ample clean water
• Ensure that the elderly and infirm have access to water

Tips for babies and children:
Babies:

• Breastfeed on demand. This is to ensure that baby stays hydrated - Mom's must remember to also drink a lot of water.
• Take your baby to the clinic at the first sign of Diarrhoea;
• Keep babies in the shade or indoors
• Keep them cool by using a damp cloth to wipe them down
• Do not cover babies in a lot of clothing and blankets; light clothing is sufficient.

Older children:

• Keep children in the shade
• Avoid sports activities if possible
• Ensure that there is a lot of water and re-hydration solution available
• Ensure that children wear hats
• Keep children indoors between 11:00 and 16:00

Tips for those working outside

• Keep the head covered
• Drink lots of water
• Take regular, short breaks in the shade
• When taking a break, pour water over your head to help the body cool down

Symptoms of heat exhaustion:
Heat stroke can be fatal and should be treated as a medical emergency. Heat exhaustion is a less severe condition but can quickly progress to heat stroke if left untreated. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke occur when the body is unable to lower its temperature to normal levels through the skin or by sweating. Dehydration can cause heat stroke because the body is unable to sweat fast enough to dissipate the heat.

Signs of heat exhaustion include:

• nausea or vomiting
• paleness
• tiredness and weakness
• headache
• muscle cramps
• dizziness

If the symptoms are severe or the victim has a heart condition or high blood pressure, seek urgent medical help.

Remember: Children under 2 years are at high risk of dehydration leading rapidly to death particularly if they have diarrhoea and/or vomiting. Use the sugar-salt-solution to help them not to dry out. Seek medical attention as soon as you possibly can.

Issued by the Directorate: Communications for Western Cape Government Health.