Understanding Heat Related Illness
Stay Safe in the Heat with Response Ready Medical®
As summer temperatures rise, it is important to be aware of potential heat related illnesses and how to recognize and treat them. There are several types of heat-related conditions, ranging from mild to severe. Knowing the difference between heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke can help you respond appropriately when you or a loved one is affected.
Heat Cramps typically occur first and are the least severe. Heat cramps are painful spasms of the muscles, especially the legs and abdomen. They happen when a person continues to exercise or work in the heat and loses large amounts of fluid and salt from sweating. This depletion of salt and moisture causes the painful cramps. The body temperature of those with heat cramps ranges from normal – about 37°C/98.6°F – to slightly elevated around 38°C/100.4°F. Treatment involves replacing the fluid and salt the body has lost. Drink fluids like water, electrolyte sports drinks or diluted juice along with snacks high in sodium like pretzels. Getting into an air conditioned space or at least some place cooler will help the cramping pass more quickly.
Heat Exhaustion occurs when a person has been exposed to high temperatures for prolonged periods, typically when participating in strenuous physical activity or wearing restrictive clothing. Heavy sweating removes a significant amount of fluids and electrolytes from the body. Common symptoms include headache, dizziness, weakness, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, irritability and confusion. The skin is damp, pale or flushed and the body temperature is typically between 38°C/100.4°F and 40°C/104°F.Treatment for heat exhaustion focuses on cooling the body and replacing fluids. Move to an air conditioned place and loosen or remove unnecessary clothing. Drink plenty of cool fluids like water or electrolyte drinks. Take a cool shower, bath or use cold compresses.
The most severe heat-related illness is Heat Stroke. This happens when the body’s temperature regulatory system fails and sweating becomes inadequate. The body is unable to cool itself and the temperature can rise to dangerous levels, sometimes exceeding 40°C/104°F. Early symptoms of heat stroke include headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion and agitation. As heat stroke worsens, a person may become delirious, lose consciousness or experience seizures. The skin is hot, dry and red. Heat stroke is a medical emergency and requires immediate cooling and medical attention. Methods to reduce core body temperature include immersing in cold water, applying ice or cold packs to the body and misting the skin with water. Seek emergency help while beginning cooling measures.
Conclusion
By understanding the differences in symptoms, body temperatures and appropriate treatments for heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke, you can ensure prompt action when needed for yourself or others during warm weather months. The key to prevention is staying hydrated with fluids, limiting time in heat and monitoring for early signs of distress. With awareness and care, heat-related illnesses need not be dangerous.
Don’t get burned- stay Response Ready in the heat this summer.