Hyperthermia (cont.)
Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is the body's response to an excessive loss of water and salt
contained in sweat. Those most prone to heat exhaustion are elderly people,
people taking high blood pressure medication and people working or exercising in
a hot environment.
What are the symptoms of heat exhaustion?
Warning signs of heat exhaustion include:
The skin may
be cool and moist. The victim's pulse rate may be fast and weak, and breathing
may be fast and shallow. If heat exhaustion is untreated, it may progress to
heat stroke.
What is the treatment for heat exhaustion?
Cooling measures that may be effective include:
- cool, non-alcoholic beverages
- rest
- cool shower, bath, or sponge bath
- an air-conditioned environment
- lightweight clothing
Seek medical attention immediately if:
- symptoms are severe, or
- the victim has heart problems or high blood pressure.
Otherwise, help the victim to cool
off, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or last longer than 1 hour.
Other heat-related health problems
Heat Cramps
Heat cramps usually affect people who sweat significantly during
strenuous activity. This sweating depletes the body's salt and moisture. The low
salt level in the muscles causes painful cramps. Heat cramps may also be a
symptom of heat exhaustion.
What are the symptoms of heat cramps?
Heat cramps are muscle pains or spasms (usually in the abdomen, arms, or legs) that may occur in association with strenuous activity. If you have heart problems or are
on a low sodium diet, get medical attention for heat cramps.
What is the treatment for heat cramps?
- Stop all activity, and sit quietly in a cool place.
- Drink clear juice or a sports beverage.
- Do not return to strenuous activity for a few hours after the cramps subside because further exertion may lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
- Seek medical attention for heat cramps if they do not subside in 1 hour.
Next: Heat rash »
- Rash - Learn about rash causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. Common skin rashes include poison ivy, hives, shingles, eczema, contact dermatitis, ringworm, psoriasis and impetigo.
- Dehydration - Read about dehydration (definition: excessive water loss) in children, treatment, symptoms (thirst, dry mouth, dark urine) and causes (vomiting, diarrhea).
- Muscle Spasms - Read about muscle spasms, their causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention. Symptoms and signs include acute pain at the site of the muscle contractions (twitches or fasciculations).
Latest Medical News
Interactive Slideshows
Health News Feed