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Breaking: A heat wave is gripping the Northeast, prompting health officials to issue urgent warnings about the dangers of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Temperatures are expected to remain above 90 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the week, with heat index values potentially exceeding 100 degrees.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises residents to limit strenuous activities, seek air-conditioned environments, and stay hydrated. Wearing loose-fitting, light-colored clothing and applying sunscreen are also crucial preventative measures.

Health officials emphasize the importance of checking on vulnerable populations, including the elderly, young children, and individuals with pre-existing chronic medical conditions. Specifically, those over 65 and children under four are at heightened risk.

Individuals taking certain medications, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) – a common class of antidepressants – may experience increased sensitivity to heat.examples of SSRIs include sertraline (Zoloft), fluoxetine (Prozac), and paroxetine (Paxil).Consulting with a physician or pharmacist about potential heat-related side effects of medications is recommended.

symptoms of heat exhaustion, as outlined by the Mayo Clinic, include heavy sweating, dizziness, fatigue, low blood pressure upon standing, muscle cramps, nausea, headache, and a rapid, weak pulse. These symptoms indicate the body is struggling to regulate its temperature.

If heat exhaustion is suspected,immediate action is necessary: cease all activity,move to a cooler location (ideally air-conditioned),and drink plenty of cool water or electrolyte-containing sports drinks. The Mayo Clinic advises seeking medical attention if symptoms do not improve within one hour or worsen.

Severe cases of heat exhaustion can escalate to heat stroke, a life-threatening condition. Immediate medical intervention is crucial if an individual exhibits confusion, loses consciousness, or is unable to drink fluids. Call 911 instantly in such instances.

To help residents cope with the extreme heat, the City of Boston has opened numerous cooling centers and activated splash pads and public pools. A comprehensive list of locations and operating hours can be found on the City of Boston’s Emergency Management website: https://www.boston.gov/departments/emergency-management/keeping-cool-heat. The Braintree Splash Pad, located at 199 Plain Street, Braintree, MA, is one example of a public space offering relief from the heat.