PLUS, SIMPLE TREATMENTS THAT WILL KEEP YOU COOL & SAFE
It’s no secret that summers in the Phoenix area are hot. Of course, many Arizona residents love the heat. It’s the reason many of us made the move to our great city or have never left it. Still, we’d be lying if we said there aren’t days that feel unbearable. As you well know, a typical August day can reach a high of 105 degrees! Fortunately, when you have Larson Air Conditioning by your side, you’re always guaranteed a cool comfort rescue on those sweat-inducing days when you need a quick AC repair or an air conditioning replacement in your Phoenix home.
But when high temperatures settle in for the long haul, they do damage to your home’s cooling system and affect your body! That’s why we felt now was a good time to remind customers about the dangers of three heat-related syndromes—heat exhaustion, heat stroke and heat cramps.
Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is a response to your body overheating. Its symptoms include heavy sweating, dehydration and a rapid pulse. This condition is caused from exposure to very high temperatures—including high humidity—and is accelerated with physical activity. Heat exhaustion can be serious if not treated right away and often leads to heat stroke. If you experience symptoms, try these suggestions to recover:
- Drink water.
- Move to a cool, shady spot (or find air conditioning, if possible).
- Loosen clothing.
- Lie down.
- Place cool, wet compresses on your body.
- If you start to vomit, call for medical assistance right away.
Heat Stroke
When left untreated, heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke. Heat stroke is the most serious of all heat-related illnesses and happens when your body’s core temperature reaches 104 degrees or higher. Sometimes, victims experience red or hot skin, confusion, slurred speech and irritability. If this happens, call for medical assistance right away. While waiting for help to arrive, follow these steps:
- Move the victim to a shady or air conditioned space.
- Fan him or her.
- Cover the person with cool, wet cloths or place him or her in a cool bath.
- Apply ice packs to the neck, armpits or back.
- Provide water or a sports drink for rehydration.
Heat Cramps
Heat cramps occur when you exercise in hot temperatures. They are painful, involuntary muscle spasms that can feel very intense. Typically, they are felt in muscles that are overused, such as calves, thighs and shoulders. Many times, they are the result of low electrolytes (a depletion of potassium, calcium and magnesium) in your system. To treat heat cramps, try the following:
- Stop exercising and sit down.
- Restore fluids—drink water or sports drinks.
- Eat salty foods to replenish sodium.
Remember: It’s always smart to stay hydrated, especially in high temperatures. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink, either. Hydrate regularly with water or sports drinks. Even foods that are packed with over 85% water, such as cucumbers, watermelon, tomatoes, spinach, oranges and apples, are good ways to stay hydrated.
WE OFFER COOL SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR PHOENIX HOME
As the summer temperatures continue to hold steady this August, don’t forget Larson Air Conditioning is only a phone call away when you seek cool relief. From AC repair in Scottsdale to air conditioning installation in Phoenix, we always have your back.