Proper hydration is crucial

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Rebecca Junious
  • 1st SOSVS
Hurlburt Field, Florida --  Winter is over and summer is here, so make sure to hydrate and learn about the damage the heat can do to one's body. 

The body gives off warning signals indicating overexposure to the sun, but people tend to ignore them or they don't recognize them. 

Three different things can happen if people don't eat, sleep and hydrate properly before being in the sun. Heat cramps are the first stage in heat illness to occur. The cramps are forceful and painful muscle contractions usually in the hamstring. With rest, water and relocation to cool environment, symptoms should go away. 

The next level is heat exhaustion. This occurs when one is exposed to the sun too long and isn't sufficiently hydrated. Some signs of heat exhaustion include paleness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, fainting and a temperature of 101-102 F. Rest and water may help, but severe cases require an intravenous injection of fluids. 

The last and most severe heat-related injury is heat stroke. Heat strokes result from lack of hydration and are considered medical emergencies. People with heat strokes usually have temperatures of 106 F or higher, are delirious, unconscious or have seizures. If someone is having a heat stroke, take them to the hospital immediately. The heat can cause serious damage to humans. Get plenty of rest, eat and stay hydrated while in the heat. Know the base warning flags and obey them. Don't become a heat casualty.