Let The Sun Shine In, Safely

June 3, 2009

While skin cancer has received heightened awareness over the past few years, some may not realize heat from the sun can wreak havoc on your body in other ways.

“I don’t think that people are nearly as aware of the serious medical problems that can result from being in the heat,” explains Michael Karp, M.D., assistant professor of clinical medicine at the Keck School of Medicine of USC.

And that lack of knowledge can be deadly. Karp cautions, “Heat stroke can kill and must be recognized as a medical emergency.”

The most severe heat-related illness, heat stroke occurs when the perspiration mechanism fails, and the body becomes unable to control its temperature. In fact, body temperature can rise to 106°F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes.

Heat stroke warning signs, which require immediate medical attention, include:
• extremely high body temperature (above 103?F)
• red, hot, dry skin (no perspiration)
• rapid pulse
• throbbing headache
• dizziness
• nausea
• vomiting
• confusion
• loss of consciousness

“All of these things are preventable,” notes Karp, “and it’s essentially just a matter of limiting your time in the sun and staying well hydrated.”

As a general rule of thumb, drink 16 fluid ounces of water an hour or a half-hour before going into the heat. Those working in the heat should drink one-half liter of water every half-hour.