ISB Health Clinic
nurse@isb.ac.th
It’s Hot Outside! Taking Care in Extreme Heat
Information on Heat Illness from the ISB Health Clinic
Heat related illnesses include a range of illness including heat rash, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and most serious, heat stroke, which can be a life-threatening condition. These conditions are caused by a combination of high temperatures, fluid loss and a loss of salts in the body. In Thailand, we have ample exposure to high temperatures and levels of humidity but this acclimatization does not equal immunity to heat illness. We want to give you information on early warning signs and how to prevent heat illness. The early warning signs indicate that the body is having difficulty cooling itself.
Why is it important for the ISB to promote awareness of heat illness?
At ISB, students and adults participate in many activities and classes held outside. These events and activities occur year round, and temperatures and humidity at this time of year begin to climb into high risk zones. According to the American National Federation of High School Associations, “exertional heat stroke is the leading cause of preventable death in high school athletics.” This is why it is important for students, athletes, parents and carers to be aware of prevention strategies, and know how to respond when someone exhibits signs of the body having difficulty cooling itself.
How can I tell the difference between normal heat response and heat illness?
The body’s normal response to heat and humidity is sweating. As temperatures and humidity increase, and if activity is strenuous such as in exercise or athletic events, sweating alone may not be adequate to sufficiently cool the body. In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights certain groups of people who are at higher risk of developing heat illness including the elderly, infants and children younger than 4, people with chronic or recent illness or on certain medications. Become familiar with the symptoms of heat illness below.
Signs and symptoms of heat-related illness:
- Heat Rash: small, red bumps on skin, itching, discomfort, “prickly” type of pain
- Heat Cramps: earliest sign of heat illness, painful, involuntary spasm of muscles
- Heat Exhaustion: heavy sweating, rapid pulse, fatigue, weakness, cold, clammy skin, pale appearance, nausea or vomiting
- Heat Stroke: confusion, high body temperature, skin is hot, red, moist or dry, strong and rapid pulse, loss of consciousness
What preventive steps can I take to protect myself and my family from heat related illnesses?
The CDC recommends the following:
– Wear sun protection
– Wear clothing that is light in color and fits loosely
– Drink plenty of fluids. For most exercising athletes, water is appropriate and sufficient
though electrolyte drinks may be advisable for some, especially with increased
exertion and duration. Avoid caffeine, energy drinks and alcohol.
– Time activities to avoid intense heat and direct sun
– Break up time in the heat with time in cool, air-conditioned buildings
– Pay attention to the weather forecast and heat advisory warnings
Remember: The most important action in staying safe in the heat is prevention followed by early recognition of heat illness symptoms. Find more information from the CDC on Heat Illness here.
The complete ISB Heat Management Guidelines can be accessed here and also on the ISB Athletics page of the Parent Portal. ISB is committed to your child’s overall development, both educationally and health related. Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact your healthcare provider or the ISB Health Clinic (nurse@isb.ac.th).
