There are several factors that can cause stress to the human mind and body and one such is excessive heat. Heat Stress refers to the heat-induced illnesses, injuries, and reduced productivity caused as a result of excessive exposure to a hot and humid work environment. Working or playing for long hours in areas where it is hot can cause stress on the cooling system of the body. Excessive heat is together with stressful conditions like hard physical work, fatigue loss of fluids or some medical conditions may cause heat-related illness and disabilities. This article gives you the causes, symptoms and remedies related to Heat Stress.
Causes of Heat Stress
Most of the causes of Heat Stress can be attributed to hot work environments such as bakeries, furnaces, smelters, foundries, mines. Many people also work outdoors for long hours thus getting exposed to heat and humidity of the surrounding environment. Heat Stress can be caused due to several heat induced conditions such as heat rash, sunburn, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
Long exposure to the heat and humidity leads one to sweat causing the body to lose its fluid. Loss of fluid and insufficient salt and water intake causes the cooling system of one?s body to break down leading to Heat Stress.
Symptoms of Heat Stress
People suffering from Heat Stress may show various symptoms such as sudden fainting, nausea and weakness and weak pulse. The other obvious symptoms of heat stress include excess sweating, cool moist skin, normal or low blood pressure, body temperature over 38?C; exhaustion, and vomiting. A person may also show signs like that of being very thirsty; panting or breathing rapidly as well as blurred vision.
Prevention of Heat Stress
Heat Stress can be controlled and prevented from becoming severe and leading to adverse conditions. The several preventive measures of Heat Stress include the following:
Reduce activity levels and or heat exposure
Drink plenty of fluids regularly
Wear light cotton fabrics during summers
Whether at work place or at home, heat stress can be prevented by installing air conditioners and coolers. Employees should take proper care to ensure a cool environment for its workers. Congenial working conditions are very important for prevention of heat stress. By taking all the necessary preventive measures, Heat Stress can be avoided and thus you can lead a healthy life.
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