HEAT RELATED PROBLEMS

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A. Heat cramps

DEFINITION -- painful muscle spasms which occur after vigorous exercise and profuse perspiration.

SYMPTOMS

• skeletal muscle cramping
• sweating
• normal body temperature

SELF-TREATMENT

1. Rest briefly; cool down
2. Eat salty foods
3. Drink Gatorade or Powerade

 

B. Heat exhaustion

DEFINITION -- symptoms occur after exposure to heat for many hours with profuse sweating and low fluid intake. The body's heat control mechanisms fail to regulate temperature.  Heat exhaustion is less dangerous than heat stroke.

SYMPTOMS

• normal or slightly elevated temperature
• rapid heartbeat
• lack of coordination
• pale appearance
• cold, clammy skin
• nausea
• dizziness
• fatigue
• headache
• intense thirst
• low blood pressure
• sweating

SELF TREATMENT

1. Get the person out of the sun and into a shady spot or air-conditioned location
2. Lay the person down with feet elevated
3. Loosen clothing
4. Give cold (not ice) water, a salty beverage or Gatorade to drink
5. If no improvement, take to the emergency room

 

C. Heat stroke

DEFINITION -- Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition resulting from long extreme exposure to heat in which a person can't sweat enough to lower body temperature.  Heat exhaustion can quickly progress to heat stroke.

SYMPTOMS

• rapid heartbeat
• decreased sweating
• rapid, shallow breathing
• fainting
• exhaustion
• confusion
• disorientation

TREATMENT

1. This is a true medical emergency. Get help immediately. Heat stroke can cause permanent damage or death if not treated immediately.
2. Move the person out of the sun.
3. Victim can be sponge bathed while awaiting ambulance

PREVENTION

1. Stay out of the sun.
2. Limit vigorous exercise during the hottest part of the day.
3. Dress properly: light colored, light-weight, loose-fitting clothing that breathes
4. Drink plenty of fluids
5. Avoid alcohol and caffeine
6. Avoid hot and heavy meals