Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Heatstroke
Heat exhaustion, heat cramps and heatstroke can occur if the body is exposed to prolonged and high temperatures. In such a situation, the body attempts to cool itself by increasing the blood flow to the skin, leaving less blood for the brain, muscles and other organs. Muscles feel weaker and mental capacity is affected. If not properly managed, the condition can be deadly.
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| Heat exhaustion | - Fatigue or weakness
- Confusion or anxiety
- Drenching sweat and cold, clammy skin
- Slowed or weakened heartbeat
- Dizziness and fainting
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| Heat cramps | - Severe cramps in the hands, calves or feet
- Hard, tense muscles
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| Heatstroke | - Hot, flushed and dry skin
- Decreased sweating
- Increased breathing rate
- Increased heart rate: to 160 - 180 beats per minute
- Body temperature above normal 37 degrees Celsius
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Confusion or loss of consciousness
- Convulsions
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Heat exhaustion is treated by moving into a cool environment and lying down flat or with feet raised slightly above head level. The raised temperature is not truly a fever but is caused by heat. Rest and drinking water may help in mild heat exhaustion. Ice packs and a cool environment (with a fan blowing) may also help. More severely exhausted patients may need IV fluids, especially if vomiting keeps them from drinking enough.
Heat cramps seem to be connected to heat, dehydration, and poor conditioning, rather than to lack of salt or other mineral imbalances. They usually improve with rest, drinking water, and a cool environment. Massage or firm pressure applied to cramping muscles help to alleviate spasms.
Heatstroke develops rapidly and can cause permanent brain damage or death. This condition requires immediate medical attention. Call for medical help and move the victim into the shade or cool environment. Try to bring down the temperature of the victim's body quickly. This can be done by sponging his or her body with cool water, placing ice packs on the groin, neck or underarms or fanning the victim by hand or with an electric fan.
7/17/2007 06:46:00 PM
