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QATAR - Heat stress, dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and sunburns are different types of heat related injuries which pose a threat to deployed members.
As summer approaches and temperatures begin to rise service members deployed throughout the U.S. Air Forces Central Command area of responsibility must be aware of possible heat related injuries.
Heat stress, dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and sunburns are different types of heat related injuries which pose a threat to deployed members.
At Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, summer months begin in May and ends in October with temperatures ranging from 109 F to 120 F.
Although it isn’t quite summer, the days of triple digit temperatures are around the corner and with them come an increased risk of heat related injuries.
“Heat illness occurs from prolonged exposure to increased ambient temperature with increased exertion and activity,” said Maj. Andrea Hickman, 379th Expeditionary Medical Group chief of medical staff, deployed from Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, and a Des Moines, Iowa, native.
Heat stress injuries typically stem from dehydration. Dehydration comes from not drinking enough water, extended exposure to elevated temperatures, which people are not acclimated to and exercising much harder than normal without increasing water intake.
Signs of dehydration include feeling thirsty, decrease in urination, dry mouth or lips, fatigue or feeling light headed.
“If these symptoms occur, start drinking water or an electrolyte-based fluid immediately, seek shade and decrease your activity level,” said Hickman.
Dehydration can lead to more serious heat related injuries or heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion is caused by activity in a hot environment, which can leave the body unable to cool itself effectively causing weakness, nausea, cramps and profuse sweating.
“Untreated heat exhaustion and the associated heat related injuries can result in damage to the heart, kidneys and brain which can lead to death,” said Hickman.
Heat stroke can occur from heat exhaustion as well. Dangerous signs of heat stroke are change in level of consciousness, decreased sweating and even seizure disorder, explained Hickman.
“Having these symptoms are a medical emergency and if anyone displays signs of a heat stroke call 911 immediately,” said Capt. William Matthews, 379th Expeditionary Medical Operation Squadron chief of bioenvironmental engineering, deployed from Davis Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., and a Coats, N.C., native.
Another heat related injury which is not as serious and is much more common are sunburns. Sunburns can be minor and can range from first degree or second degree burns if blistering occurs. Prevent sunburns by wearing sunglasses, wide brimmed hats, long sleeves, decreased time in the sun and using sunscreen explained Matthews.
“The best defense against heat related injuries is being proactive,” said Hickman. “Plan to take breaks when working outside in high heat and humidity and have plenty of water or electrolyte sports drinks available to stay hydrated.”
| Date Taken: | 03.28.2014 |
| Date Posted: | 03.28.2014 04:12 |
| Story ID: | 122959 |
| Location: | QA |
| Web Views: | 52 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Hydration beats heat related injuries, by SSgt Hannah Dickerson, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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