MUHC advises on the prevention of heat-related illness

While the long hot days of summer are wonderful, they can also bring on heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke, exhaustion and dehydration.

Dr. Marc Beique, Director of Emergency Medicine of the MUHC, explains: "Each summer our emergency departments see some patients suffering from various heat-related problems. These include anything from mild dehydration, nausea, malaise and fatigue to the rare, but more serious, heat stroke."

Early symptoms of heat stroke include fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and malaise. During the onset of a heat wave, these should be seen as early warning signs.

If you think you are suffering from heat-related illness Dr. Beique offers the following advice:

• Stop, seek shelter or a cool place, rest and hydrate yourself (drink water)
• Elderly people should avoid going out during extreme heat periods, especially if they are on medications such as water pills
• Drink plenty of water, especially if you are engaging in sports
• Avoid strenuous activity during hot weather
• Limit alcohol intake

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