Extreme heat brings with it the possibility of heat-induced illnesses. During the hot, humid summer weather, the body's internal temperature can rise and can result in heat exhaustion and heatstroke. If not treated quickly, heat exhaustion can progress into heatstroke, which requires immediate medical care and can be fatal.
Signs and Symptoms:
Heat Exhaustion
- Severe thirst
- Muscle weakness
- Nausea, sometimes vomiting
- Irritability
- Headache
- Increased sweating
- Cool clammy skin
- Elevation of body temperature to 105 degrees Fahrenheit
- Weak, rapid pulse
Heatstroke
- Severe, throbbing headache
- Weakness, dizziness or confusion
- Difficulty breathing
- Decreased responsiveness or loss of consciousness
- Little or no sweating
- Flush, hot, dry skin
- Elevation of body temperature to 105 degrees Fahrenheit
What to Do:
If the person has a temperature of 105 degrees Fahrenheit or more or shows signs and symptoms of heatstroke, seek emergency medical care immediately. In cases of heat exhaustion and while waiting for help:
- Move the person to a cool place indoors or under the shade of a tree.
- Loosen clothing.
- Have the person lie down. Elevate feet slightly.
- If the person is alert, place in cool (not cold) bath water.
- IF the person is alert, give frequent sips of cool, clear fluids (clear juice or sports drinks are best).
- If the person is vomiting, turn his or her body to the side to prevent choking.
- Monitor the person's temperatures.
Think Prevention! Be sensible about how much you exert yourself in hot weather.
- Drink plenty of fluids- do not wait until you are thirsty.
- Avoid exertion in the hottest weather.
- Wear light-colored, loose clothing.
Heat Exhaustion is the result of excessive heat and dehydration. Heatstroke is a medical emergency!
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