Heat Illnesses: Know Signs & Act

Working hard on a summer day, you suddenly become aware of feeling ill. Heat illness is a hazard caused by temperature, humidity, radiant heat (such as from the sun), and air speed. How you react to these factors depends upon your age, weight, fitness level, medical condition, and acclimatization to the heat.

Your body attempts to regulate heat through blood flow and sweating. When your muscles are working, blood flow is hindered. Less blood is available to flow to the skin and release the heat. Perspiring is effective only if the humidity level is low enough to permit evaporation and the fluids and salts lost are adequately replaced. With insufficient regulation, heat is stored, your body’s core temperature rises, and your heart rate increases.

Heat stress can affect anyone. Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting; weakness and moist skin; mood changes such as irritability or confusion; upset stomach, thirst, or vomiting. Protect yourself and drink plenty of fluids, maintain normal salt intake, wear light-colored clothing, avoid drinks with caffeine, and eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.

Heat exhaustion results from a failure to drink enough fluids or take in enough salt.  It occurs when you stop perspiring because circulation is diverted to the body’s core in an effort to maintain core temperature.  You have cool, dry skin; a pale complexion; and a body temperature slightly higher than normal.  You may shiver and feel cold due to body fluids shifting to the core, and you may experience extreme weakness or fatigue, giddiness, nausea, or headache. What do you do?  Rest in a cool place and drink water. Seek medical attention if you vomit or begin to lose consciousness.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency requiring hospitalization. Your body no longer regulates its core temperature through adequate blood flow and perspiring.  It may begin very soon after heat exhaustion.  Signs include confusion, loss of consciousness, convulsions or coma, and hot, dry skin, which may be red, mottled, or bluish. Immediately call 911. Prompt first aid can prevent permanent injury to the brain and other vital organs … and could save your life!

While awaiting medical help, keep the victim in a cool area and soak clothing with cool water, vigorously fan to increase cooling, spray with a cool mist of water, wipe with a wet cloth, or cover with a wet sheet. Place ice packs under the armpits and groin area.