Preventing Heat-Related Illnesses

This is the most dangerous heat-related illness. This can happen when the body gets above 103 degrees Fahrenheit. The body loses control of its temperature and can no longer sweat and cool itself. The body can reach temperatures as high as 106 degrees within as little as 10 minutes, which can be fatal and permanent injures if not treated.

Symptoms:

• An extremely high body temperature (above 103°F)
• Red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating)
• Rapid, strong pulse
• Throbbing headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Unconsciousness

What to do:

• Get the victim to a shady area.
• Cool the victim rapidly, using whatever methods you can. For example, immerse the victim in a tub of cool water; place the person in a cool shower; spray the victim with cool water from a garden hose; sponge the person with cool water; or if the humidity is low, wrap the victim in a cool, wet sheet and fan him or her vigorously.
• Monitor body temperature and continue cooling efforts until the body temperature drops to 101-102°F.
• If emergency medical personnel are delayed, call the hospital emergency room for further instructions.
• Do not give the victim alcohol to drink.
• Get medical assistance as soon as possible.

Heat exhaustion happens when the body is exposed to high temperatures for multiple days and is not replenished with enough fluids. This is a mild form of heat-related illness that is seen often in elderly people, people with high blood pressure, and anyone working or exercising in an environment that is hot. Medical attention is required if symptoms last longer than an hour. If this remains untreated it can turn into heatstroke.

Symptoms:

• Heavy sweating
• Paleness
• Muscle cramps
• Tiredness
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fainting

What to do:

• Drink cool, nonalcoholic beverages
• Rest
• Take a cool shower, bath, or sponge bath
• Seek an air-conditioned environment
• Wear lightweight clothing

Heat cramps occur most of the time because of strenuous activity and are muscle pains and spasms. They typically happen in the legs, arms, or abdomen. The more you sweat the more likely you are to get heat cramps. Sweating depletes the body moisture and salt levels. You need to seek medical attention if you are on a low-sodium diet or have heart problems.

What to do:

• Stop all 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 because further exertion may lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke
• Seek medical attention for heat cramps if they do not subside in 1 hour

Heat rash is a skin irritation that looks like a group of small blisters or pimples. This forms usually in elbow creases, the groin, on the upper chest, the neck and under the breasts. This is caused by extreme sweating in hot, humid weather. This can happen to people of all ages however, it is most prominent in children.

What to do:

• Get to a cooler and less humid environment
• Keep the affected dry
• Apply powder for comfort