Heat-related Illness: Part II

Last week we talked about heat-related illnesses including the types of conditions caused by the heat and the risk factors for suffering a heat illness. Today we will talk more about the symptoms and measures you should take to treat heat-related illnesses, as well as how these illnesses can be prevented.

Symptoms –

• Move to a cool place, preferably in an air-conditioned space.
• Use cool compresses on your skin or take a cool bath or shower.
• Dry your skin gently. Fan skin either manually or with an electric fan.
• Avoid using any skin product that could block your pores.

• Rest. Do NOT continue the activity you were doing.
• Drink cool sports drinks, such as Gatorade
• Stretch cramped muscles gently, with slow movements.

• Muscle cramps
• Moist, pale skin. Heavy sweating.
• GI symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Headache
• Tiredness and/or weakness
• Feeling faint or dizzy.
• Rapid breathing and/or rapid heartbeat. Weak pulse.
• Body temperature often 100.4 to 102°F

• High fever, usually over 104°F
• Confusion
• Agitation
• Lethargy – Extreme fatigue with a decrease in consciousness.
• Stupor – Worsening level of consciousness in which one does not respond to environmental stimuli or make any spontaneous movement. This could progress to coma.
• Seizures
• Death is possible!

• Call for emergency medical service. In the US, call 911.
• While waiting for the ambulance to arrive, you should:
  • o Move the person to a cool place.
  • o Remove excess clothing and pour a lot of cool water over the skin and fan the skin. If using an outdoor hose, test the water temperature before you use it!
  • o Put ice packs on the armpits and groin.
  • o If the person is alert enough, you may offer cool fluids to drink.

• Never leave anyone in a parked car! Even if the windows are cracked or the car is in the shade, temperatures can rise dramatically within just a few minutes.
• Drink plenty of fluids on hot days, especially with activity, including water or sports drinks. Try to drink every 15 minutes on a hot day (16-32 ounces of water each hour); don’t wait until you’re thirsty.
• Avoid alcohol and any caffeinated drinks, which can increase the risk of dehydration.
• Avoid exercise or physical activity when the heat index is high. When you must do physical activity in the heat, take rest breaks in a cooler place. Or plan physical activity during cooler times of the day.
• Wear light colored and light weight clothing that is loose fitting. Look for fabrics that help wick moisture away from your body to help with cooling.
• Use sun protection, such as a wide-brimmed hat or an umbrella. Wear sunscreen. A sunburn increases the risk of dehydration and reduces your body’s ability to cool itself.
• Spend as much time as possible in an air-conditioned area on very hot and humid days.
• Gradually increase the time spent in the heat, so your body adjusts to it.
• Avoid eating hot and/or heavy meals during the heat. Instead, try a cold pasta salad or a green salad, maybe with a cold soup or sandwich.
• If you are at high risk of heat complications due to medical conditions or medications you take, be extra cautious in the heat and pay close attention to any symptoms of overheating.