During extreme heat, Winona Health welcomes people in to cool down On extremely hot humid days throughout the summer when heat indexes rise to dangerous levels, Winona Health welcomes community members to come in to take a break from the heat. Winona Health is at 855 Mankato Avenue in Winona. Those seeking relief from the heat may come in and cool down in the clinic’s family and visitor waiting areas or the hospital cafeteria. Visitors are encouraged to bring a water bottle and fill up at one of the drinking fountains or in the cafe. The clinic is open Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. During the day on weekends, people are welcome to come in the hospital entrance and cool off in the hospital lobby or cafe. Healthcare providers at Winona Health also encourage community members to be aware of the potential for heat-related health issues such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke and to take precautions to prevent them. “In general, infants and elderly people are at the greatest risk for heat exhaustion and heat stroke because their body’s temperature regulation isn’t as efficient,” said Chris Schubert, MD, an Emergency Medicine physician at Winona Health. He also stressed that it’s very important to never leave children or pets in parked vehicles for any length of time because the temperature inside a vehicle or other small space can increase dramatically in a matter of minutes. “Although it’s not always possible, the best way to prevent heat-related problems is to stay in an air conditioned environment, or use fans, and avoid being in the direct sun for any length of time,” noted Dr. Schubert. “People also should drink plenty of water and limit drinks containing caffeine or alcohol, which are diuretics and can lead to dehydration.” Wearing loose, light-colored clothing and a hat also provides some protection from the sun. Dr. Schubert encourages people who have a regular exercise routine to avoid exercising during the hottest part of the day, generally 11 a.m. until 6 p.m., and consider cutting back on their routine and waiting until it’s cooler to exercise—and be sure to carry plenty of water or a sports drink. The Winona Health Emergency Department is always open, and the Urgent Care Clinic is open Monday through Friday 7 a.m. until 8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Take precautions to protect yourself from the heat Signs and Symptoms of heat exhaustion
- severe thirst
- muscle weakness
- nausea, sometimes vomiting
- fast, shallow breathing
- irritability
- headache
- increased sweating
- cool, clammy skin
- severe, throbbing headache
- weakness, dizziness, or confusion
- difficulty breathing
- decreased responsiveness or loss of consciousness
- little or no sweating
- flushed, hot, dry skin
- get the person out of the sun immediately
- loosen or remove clothing and have the person lie down and elevate feet slightly
- if alert, place the person in cool (not cold) bath water or give a cool sponge bath
- give sips of cool, clear liquid (clear juices or sports drinks are best)
- if the person is vomiting, turn on his or her side to prevent choking
- monitor the person’s temperature