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JOHNSON
• Heat edema: swelling in ankles and feet when you get hot.
• Heat rash: skin irritation from heavy sweating that causes red clusters of small blisters that look similar to pimples on the skin.
• Heat exhaustion: a warning that your body can no longer keep itself cool. You might feel thirsty, dizzy, weak, uncoordinated and nauseated. You may sweat a lot. Your body temperature may stay normal, but your skin may feel cold and clammy. Some people with heat exhaustion have a rapid pulse. Heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke. If you or someone you are with begin to show any signs of heat exhaustion, move to a cooler environment as quickly as possible — preferably a well airconditioned room. Loosen clothing, sponge o or bathe with cool water, lie down and rest.
• Heat stroke: a medical emergency in which the body’s temperature rises above 104°F. Signs of heat stroke are fainting; confusion or acting strangely; not sweating even when it’s hot; dry, ushed skin; strong, rapid pulse; or a slow, weak pulse. When a person has any of these symptoms, they should seek medical help right away and immediately move to a cooler place, such as under shade or indoors. ey should also take action to lower their body temperature with cool clothes, a cool bath or shower, and fans. But the added risks don’t mean you have to stop doing the things
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munity and those who want to learn about and celebrate the vibrant cultures represented at the event. Last year’s festival drew in more than 170,000 people, according to Moore, and this year is on track to match or exceed that number.
“We’re becoming more inclusive and working with the community to make sure everyone’s voices are heard,” she added. “We see a huge thirst and desire for Coloradoans to come out and support these organizations.” e nonpro t organization puts hours and hours of work into the festival, which also doubles as a crucial fundraiser for Colorado Dragon Boat. All the festival’s beverage centers are run by local nonpro ts that also use the event as a fundraiser, so every dollar spent on a beverage is you love. It just means taking the time to prepare for your outdoor fun.
Some of the most e ective preventive measures include:
• Wear sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher).
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose tting, cotton clothing, including long sleeves and a breathable hat.
• Take frequent rest periods.
• Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV rays.
• Drink plenty of liquids. Try a measured water bottle to track your progress — some water bottles are connected to an app on your smart phone to remind you to drink. Water, fruit or vegetable juices, or drinks that include electrolytes are best. Avoid alcohol and ca einated drinks.
• Get outside earlier in the day and try to avoid outdoor activities during the heat of the day, which is typically mid to late afternoon.
• Don’t rely on perspiration to cool you down, some people just don’t sweat as much as they age.
Getting outdoors and enjoying the sun and warmer temps should stay on everyone’s to-do list. However, a few basic precautions and awareness of what to look for and when to shut things down will help deliver a fun, safe summer for Coloradans of all ages.
Stacey Johnson, RN, NHA, is the Area Director of Clinical Services for Ascent Living Communities, which includes Carillon at Belleview Station in Greenwood Village, Hilltop Reserve in Denver, the Village at Belmar in Lakewood and Roaring Fork Senior Living in Glenwood Springs.
