Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is the body's response to an excessive loss of water and salt through sweat.
Signs of Heat Exhaustion
- heavy sweating
- paleness
- muscle cramps
- tiredness
- weakness
- dizziness
- headache
- nausea or vomiting
- fainting
- The skin may be cool and moist
- The victim's pulse rate will be fast and weak
- Breathing will be fast and shallow.
If heat exhaustion is untreated, it may lead to heat stroke. Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms are severe.
Treatment
- drink cool, non-alcoholic beverages
- rest
- take a cool shower, bath, or sponge bath
- get into an air-conditioned environment
- wear lightweight clothing
Heat Stroke
Heat stroke occurs when the body becomes unable to control its temperature and the sweating mechanism fails so the body is unable to cool down. Body temperature may rise to 106°F or higher within 10-15 minutes. Heat stroke is serious and lead to death or permanent disability.
Signs of Heat Stroke
- an extremely high body temperature (above 103°F)
- red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating)
- rapid, strong pulse
- throbbing headache
- dizziness
- nausea
- confusion
- unconsciousness
Treatment
Call for immediate medical assistance and cool the victim immediately.
Cool the victim rapidly using whatever methods you can: immerse in a tub of cool water; place in a cool shower; spray with cool water from a garden hose; sponge with cool water; or if the humidity is low, wrap the victim in a cool, wet sheet and fan him or her vigorously.
Monitor the person's body temperature, and continue cooling until the temperature drops to 101-102°F. Get medical assistance as soon as possible.
Other Heat Illness
Heat Cramps
Heat cramps usually affect people who sweat a lot during strenuous activity. This sweating depletes the body's salt and moisture.
Heat cramps are muscle pains or spasms - usually in the abdomen, arms, or legs - that may occur in association with strenuous activity.
Treatment
- Stop activity, and sit quietly in a cool place.
- Drink clear juice or a sports beverage.
- Do not return to strenuous activity for a few hours after the cramps subside
- Seek medical attention for heat cramps if they do not subside in 1 hour.
Sunburn
Sunburn should be avoided because it is damaging to the skin. Although the discomfort is usually minor and healing often occurs in about a week, a more severe sunburn may require medical attention.
Recognizing Sunburn
Symptoms of sunburn are well known: skin becomes red, painful, and abnormally warm after sun exposure.
Treatment
- Avoid repeated sun exposure.
- Apply cold compresses or immerse the sunburned area in cool water.
- Apply moisturizing lotion to affected areas. Do not use salve, butter, or ointment.
- Do not break blisters.
Heat Rash
Heat rash is a skin irritation caused by excessive sweating during hot, humid weather. It can occur at any age but is most common in young children. Heat rash looks like a red cluster of pimples or small blisters. It is more likely to occur on the neck and upper chest, in the groin, under the breasts, and in elbow creases.
Treatment
Move to a cool, less humid environment. Keep the affected area dry. Dusting powder may be used to increase comfort, but avoid using ointments or creams that keep the skin warm and moist and may make the condition worse.
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