Huntington Health doctors urge caution as temperatures rise – Pasadena Now

Dr. John Rodarte, a pediatrician at Huntington Health and a search and rescue volunteer, emphasized the importance of preparation to avoid heatstroke as Pasadena was hit with sweltering heat as a heat wave sweeps across the Western U.S.

“Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are on a continuum, and signs of heat exhaustion can signal the onset of heat stroke if you don’t cool down quickly,” says Rodarte, who is also a volunteer with Montrose Search and Rescue, which has been busy responding to distress calls from overheated hikers since the heat wave began in early July.

Heat stroke occurs when the body loses too much fluid and sodium, often due to excessive exercise. Symptoms include increased heart rate, heavy sweating, muscle cramps, dizziness, headache, nausea, and sometimes vomiting. If left untreated, the body temperature can reach 103 degrees Fahrenheit and progress to heat stroke.

If you have heat stroke, it is important to administer first aid immediately.

“We use ice packs, ice baths, encourage them to drink cold water and sometimes they need IV fluids,” Rodante said.

He also suggests planning outdoor activities for early morning or evening hours to avoid the sun’s strongest rays. He recommends carrying plenty of water and wearing a protective helmet when outdoors.

“Don’t push yourself beyond your limits,” warns Rodarte. “If you’re going on a hike, eat a good meal first so you don’t exhaust yourself. Drink water before you get thirsty and sip it constantly.”

For longer exercise sessions, Rodarte suggests taking in electrolytes from a sports drink, and wearing a damp bandana around your neck to stay cool.

Rodarte advises people with chronic health conditions to avoid outdoor activity during hot weather, and he notes that certain medications can make hot weather especially dangerous for people with heart or kidney disease.

Parents should make sure their children stay hydrated and take frequent breaks in air-conditioned areas, and Rodarte suggests using a small battery-powered fan to stay cool while sightseeing or doing outdoor activities.

He also urges pet owners to look after their pets’ health during the heatwaves, warning against leaving them in hot cars and recommending giving them plenty of water during outdoor activities.

Rodarte noted that search and rescue services in Los Angeles County are free of charge and urged people to seek help quickly, and urged people to be properly prepared to avoid emergencies and reduce the need for rescue operations in extreme circumstances.

Rodarte suggests that people seeking cooler weather visit cooler locations like the beach, mountains or a local lake, and advises those who work outdoors to take breaks in the shade, wick away moisture and wear breathable clothing to protect themselves from the sun.