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Tips to Beat the Heat

NORMAN - With temperatures reaching 100 degrees, Norman Regional Hospital’s Emergency Department has been busy treating patients suffering from heat-related illnesses.

Over the past five days alone, ten people have been treated in the Norman Regional ER for heat stroke, heat exhaustion and dehydration. Emergency Department physician Dr. Robbie Frantz says this heat wave can be very dangerous if you do not take precautions while outdoors.

“If you don’t pay attention to your body’s reaction to heat, a heat-related injury can happen quickly and lead to serious medical problems,” said Frantz.

Luckily, Frantz says there are some easy and simple ways to prevent heat-related illnesses.

Here are his tips to avoid becoming ill:

  • Limit long exposure to heat or too much activity in the hot sun.
  • Drink more fluids. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.
  • Don’t drink liquids that contain alcohol or large amounts of sugar.
  • Stay inside an air-conditioned place if at all possible. If your home doesn’t have air-conditioning, go to a public place that does like the mall or library.
  • Take cool showers or baths.
  • Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
  • NEVER leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle.
  • Limit outdoor activity to morning and evening hours.
  • Cut down on exercise.
  • If you have to be outside, rest often in shady areas and protect your self with a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.

“People who have pre-existing medical conditions should limit their exposure to the heat,” Frantz said. “Certain medication can also increase the risk of a heat-related illness. So a person should speak to their physician about the heat-related side effects of each medication they are taking.”

If you begin to experience symptoms of a heat-related illness like a rapid pulse, throbbing headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, temperature or you STOP sweating, you should seek medical treatment.

Norman Regional Hospital’s award-winning Emergency Department is located on the northwest side of the hospital, located at 901 North Porter Avenue.

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Contact Kelly Wells
Norman Regional Health System

Office (405) 307.2143
Fax (405) 307.2144
Email NRHS_Corporate_Communications@nrh-ok.com