Working in Florida, you know that there is a risk that you’ll be out in hot weather. It might be humid, too, which means that it will be harder for your body to sweat and cool itself.
While working, one thing that you and your coworkers should all be aware of is the risk of heat stroke. Heat stroke, which is also called sun stroke, can lead to serious, life-threatening symptoms such as:
- Confusion
- High body temperature
- An absence of sweating
- Coma
- Agitation
- Dehydration
Heat stroke is a kind of hyperthermia. That means that your body is too hot and cannot cool itself quickly enough to maintain its normal body temperature. Since this condition is diagnosed by observation, you should be aware of the above symptoms and be on the lookout for those symptoms, or symptoms leading to those, as you work.
How can you prevent heat stroke?
One of the best ways to prevent heat stroke is to make sure you are hydrated. In hot or humid weather, you may need to take more regular breaks. If you get too hot or are feeling faint, it’s time to go inside and take a break. You need to rehydrate and focus on cooling your body temperature before your symptoms worsen.
Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical care. Prior to the condition developing in its most severe form, you may have heat exhaustion. Symptoms include:
- A rash of pimples or small blisters across the body
- Heat cramps, or muscle spasms, that happen in the abdomen, arms and legs
- Heat syncope (fainting)
If you or anyone you work with suffers from heat stroke, seek immediate medical care. Workers’ compensation may be an option to pay for the medical support that you needed.
