Heat Stroke
Medical Author: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD
Medical Editor: Dennis Lee, MD
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How to Recognize a Heat–Related Illness
Medical Author: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD
Medical Editor: Jay W. Marks, MD
 During a heat wave, it's important to know and be able to
recognize the signs and symptoms of a heat-related illness. There are different
types of heat-related illnesses, ranging from those that cause temporary
discomfort to the generally fatal condition known as heat stroke. In all heat-related
illnesses, the symptoms appear when a person is exposed to extreme temperatures.
The following checklist can help you recognize the symptoms of heat-related
illnesses:
- Heat Rash: Heat rash is a
skin irritation caused by excessive sweating during hot, humid weather. It can
occur at any age but is most common in young children. Heat rash looks like a
red cluster of pimples or small
blisters. For more, please read the Heat Rash
article.
- Heat cramps: A person who has
been exercising or participating in other types of strenuous activity in the
heat may develop painful muscle spasms in the arms, legs, or abdomen. The body
temperature is usually normal, and the skin will feel moist and cool, but
sweaty. For more, please read the Heat Cramps article.
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What is heat stroke?
Heat stroke is a form of hyperthermia (abnormally
elevated body temperature)
with accompanying physical and neurological symptoms.
Unlike heat cramps and heat exhaustion, two less-severe forms of hyperthermia,
heat stroke is a true
medical emergency that can be fatal if not properly and promptly treated.
The body normally generates heat as a result of metabolism, and the
body is usually able to dissipate the heat by either radiation of heat through
the skin or by evaporation of sweat. However, in extreme heat, high humidity, or vigorous
exertion under the sun, the body may not be able to dissipate the heat and the
body temperature rises, sometimes up to 106 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
Another cause of heat stroke is dehydration. A dehydrated person may not be able
to sweat fast enough to dissipate heat, which causes the body temperature to
rise.
The population most susceptible to hear strokes are
infants, the elderly (often with associated heart diseases, lung diseases,
kidney diseases, or on
certain medications that make them vulnerable to heat strokes), and athletes, or
outdoor workers physically exerting themselves under the sun.
What are heat stroke symptoms?
Symptoms of heat stroke can sometimes mimic those of
heart attack or other conditions. Sometimes a person experiences symptoms
of heat exhaustion before progressing to heat strokes. Symptoms of
heat exhaustion may include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, weakness,
headache, muscle cramps and aches, and dizziness.
However some individuals can develop symptoms of heat stroke suddenly and
rapidly without warning.
Different people may have different symptoms and signs of heat stroke. But
common symptoms and signs of heat stroke include:
- high body temperature
- the absence of sweating, with hot red or flushed dry
skin
- rapid pulse
- difficulty breathing
- strange behavior
- hallucinations
- confusion
- agitation
- disorientation
- seizure
- coma
How do you treat a heat stroke victim?
Victims of heat stroke must receive immediate treatment
to avoid permanent organ damage. First and foremost, cool the victim. Get the victim
to a shady area, remove clothing, apply cool or tepid water to the skin (for
example you may spray the victim with cool water from a garden hose), fan the
victim to promote sweating and evaporation, place ice packs under armpits and
groins. Monitor body temperature with a thermometer and continue cooling efforts
until the body temperature drops to 101-102 degrees. Always notify emergency
services (911) immediately. If their arrival is delayed, they can give you
further instructions for treatment of the victim.
The most important measures to prevent heat strokes are to avoid becoming
dehydrated, and to avoid vigorous physical activities in hot and humid weather.
If you have to perform physical activities in hot weather, drink plenty of
fluids (such as water and Gatorade), but avoid alcohol, coffee, and tea which
may lead to dehydration. Take frequent breaks to hydrate yourself. Wear hats,
and light colored, and light and loose clothes.
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From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com  |
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- Low Blood Pressure - Learn about low blood pressure (hypotension). Low blood pressure is blood pressure below normal and symptoms may include: lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting upon standing (orthostatic hypotension). There are many causes of low blood pressure, and treatment is dependant upon the cause. Source:MedicineNet
- Dehydration - Read about dehydration (definition: excessive water loss) in children, treatment, symptoms (thirst, dry mouth, dark urine) and causes (vomiting, diarrhea). Source:MedicineNet
- Heat Rash - Learn heat rash symptoms, causes, and treatment of heat rash-- a common skin irritation that can occur at any age. Source:Government
- Read 50 more Heat Stroke related articles ...
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Last Editorial Review: 6/26/2007
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