Health dept. urges community to prevent heat related illness

ZANESVILLE, Ohio- A heat wave has swept across Ohio bringing some risks that many people may not think twice about.

As temperatures reach extreme high’s, the possibility of heat related illness grows much quicker. Zanesville-Muskingum County Health Department Doctor Vicki Whitacre said paying attention to the warning signs is key.

“If you start feeling weak and think you’re maybe going to pass out and you’re sweating profusely, but you feel cold and clammy, maybe even a little sick to your stomach, you better get out of the heat and if you’re vomiting you may have to go to the hospital,” said Dr. Whitacre.

Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water and limiting outdoor activity is essential. Though heat related illnesses tend to vary from person to person, Dr. Whitacre pointed out some areas to pay special attention to.

“Being a very young child or a baby left out in the heat can get into trouble a lot faster, also they can’t get the water. Older people particularly with chronic medical conditions and taking pills that make them go to the bathroom a lot can get into trouble a lot quicker than the average young person,” said Dr. Whitacre.

She said that alcoholic and high sugar content beverages are also dangerous for heat exhaustion because they dehydrate the body even more.

Wearing a hat and light colored clothing, as well as resting in the shade or air-conditioned spaces are encouraged during high heat indexes.