Heat Illness

KNOW HEAT ILLNESS EFFECTS

What are the symptoms of Heat Illness?

The health effects of overexposure to heat include heat rash, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

Heat Rash is the most common problem.  It’s caused by sweating and appears as a red cluster of pimples or small blisters.   The rash area should be kept dry; powder may be used for comfort, but avoid ointments and cream.

Heat Cramps are muscle pains caused by the loss of body salts and fluid during sweating. If heat cramps develop, drink plenty of liquids such as electrolyte replacement drink.  Avoid salt tablets.

Heat Exhaustion is the next most serious heat related illness.  Symptoms include dizziness, headache, heavy sweating, fast heart rate, nausea, weakness, cramps, elevated body temperature, reduced urine output, & irritability.

If symptoms are present, seek medical attention immediately.  Move the person out of the hot area and have them drink liquids. Remove unnecessary clothing to facilitate cooling.  Use cold compresses to the head, neck, and face or have the person splash water on the head, neck, and face.

Heat Stroke is the most serious heat-related health problem.  It’s occurs when the body loses its ability to regulate temperature and the body temperature rises to critical levels. Symptoms include confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures, very high body temperature, and hot, dry skin or profuse sweating.

Heat stroke is life-threatening.  It requires immediate response.   Move the person to a cool, shaded, area.  Remove outer clothing.  Wet the person by placing a cold wet cloth or ice over the body or soak the person’s clothes with cold water. Circulate air to speed cooling.