There is no arguing the fact that Connecticut is in the midst of a brutal heat wave. Heat waves were attributed to over 7,000 deaths in the U.S. between 1999-2009, either from heart failure, heat stroke or severe dehydration and should not be taken lightly.

Especially at risk in this heat are the elderly, very young children, those without air conditioning and the infirmed. Heat stroke is a medical emergency. It can kill or cause brain and organ damage. Call 911 immediately if you suspect someone has heat stroke.

11 Signs that you are suffering from heat stroke or dehydration:

The top 6 heat stroke symptoms are:

  • A fever of 103* or higher
  • Warm, DRY skin ( no perspiration)
  • A Strong, rapid pulse
  • Confusion and/or loss of consciousness
  • Strong, throbbing headache
  • Nausea, vomiting, or both

You could be suffering from dehydration with the addition of these symptoms:

  • Dry, sticky mouth
  • Sleepiness
  • Sunken Eyes
  • Irritability
  • Low blood pressure
  • Dark colored urine

If you or a loved one are showing any of these symptoms in the extreme heat, they should immediately be seen by a doctor or go to the ER.

If they are suffering from dehydration and are unconscious, immediately call 911. However, if they seem to be suffering minor symptoms, such as extreme thirst or dizziness, then they can be treated right on the spot.

First and foremost, it is important to try and push fluids, regardless if they have vomited or not. The reason for this is because they need to replace the fluids lost and rebalance the body.

While pushing fluids, keep these few things in mind;

  • Drink small amounts of fluids. Drinking too many fluids at once can cause vomiting, which we want to try and avoid as much as possible because it causes more severe dehydration.
  • Drink water, juice or a sports drink. Take in small amounts of these fluids within 2 to 4 hours.
  • If vomiting occurs, try chewing ice chips and popsicles.
  • Once feeling better, you should stay rested and follow up by drinking 10 glasses a day to slowly replenish fluids lost.

It is very important to monitor your symptoms after suffering from dehydration for up to 24 hours. If left untreated, heat stroke and /or severe dehydration can lead to much more serious consequences.

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