The scorching temperatures this summer have highlighted an important occupational hazard for our colleagues in the construction industry and those who work outdoors- Heat exhaustion. Those 100-degree days can take a toll on the body.
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are similar in their etiology, except the latter is the most severe manifestation. Both arise from being exposed to very high temperatures that eventually leaves the body dehydrated.
Anyone who works outdoors particularly in summer times is at a high risk- a few examples include Firefighters, construction workers, Delivery (e.g. UPS) personnel and landscape artists.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING HEAT EXHAUSTION?
Our body has a thermoregulatory capacity, which means it will regulate a body temperature within a range (around 98.6 deg F) by inherent mechanisms. This is to prevent a dangerous rise in temperature, which can be detrimental.
Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can circumvent these safety mechanisms and can eventually lead to dehydration—essentially loss of water and electrolytes from the body. As the body water and minerals drain out, fatigue sets in. This is typically followed by other symptoms of heat exhaustion, the most common being dry mouth, headaches, difficulty concentrating and body soreness.
In severe cases, it can lead to hyperthermia (very high body temperature beyond 104 deg F) which can lead to seizures and even death. This is called a heat stroke.
First, there are some general measures that can prevent heat exhaustion and are recommended for everyone:
Try limiting exposure to direct heat/sun as much as possible particularly when the temperatures are hot. Unfortunately, this is not an option for everyone, e.g. firefighters.
Thick protective clothing that firefighters wear can also worsen dehydration, but if possible, using loose comfortable clothing is another way to reduce the impact. Remember, the body allows itself to cool by sweating, so allowing your body to sweat while effectively hydrating at the same time is the best way to minimize symptoms of heat exhaustion.
Focus on Hydration: This is where a few things are in your control. Replacing the loss of water and electrolytes by proper rehydration can significantly reduce symptoms of heat exhaustion.
To rehydrate effectively, replacing water and electrolytes is essential. Our bodies can lose a lot of electrolytes, particularly sodium, chloride and potassium in sweat. While water can certainly help with staying hydrated, drinking pure water can often lead to worsening symptoms of heat exhaustion, particularly muscle soreness and fatigue.
A rise in body temperature and accelerate this loss of fluid and minerals. This, compounded with the fact that most adults do not get enough magnesium in their diet can add to the deficiency. The result? Excessive fatigue, restless legs, heat cramps and soreness- all of these being the symptoms of heat exhaustion which can prevent someone from working the next day.
MAGNAK® is a physician formulated magnesium-rich electrolyte mix with an optimal blend of sodium and potassium, to replace the lost electrolytes and water during heat exposure.
The low sugar content in the formula allows for a faster absorption from the GI tract preventing bloating while providing an instant source of energy. The vitamin C and magnesium reduce heat cramps and muscle soreness. The optimal blend of sodium and potassium allow for a faster recovery while lessening fatigue. All of these benefits without any preservatives or artificial colors.
MAGNAK® is available online and on Amazon in single serving stick packs. To rehydrate effectively, use 1 stick pack in a 16 fl. oz of water, and continue to hydrate during the day. For a longer and warmer day, use at least 32-45 fl. oz of electrolyte water based on your activity.
Remember, most adults should consume at least 60-70 fl. oz of fluids during the day. Water is the main solvent, but other solutes such as electrolytes also help reduce fatigue associated with heat exhaustion, so you can wake up without soreness and carry on with your work, the next day.
