Heat Disorders and Symptoms

Heat disorders generally have to do with a reduction or collapse of the body's ability to shed heat by circulatory changes and sweating, or a chemical (salt) imbalance caused by too much sweating.  When heat gain exceeds the level the body can remove, or when the body cannot compensate for fluids and salt lost through perspiration, the temperature of the body's inner core begins to rise and heat-related illness may develop.  

Ranging in severity, heat disorders share one common feature: the individual has overexposed or overexercised for his/her age and physical condition in the existing thermal environment.  

Sunburn, with its ultraviolet radiation burns, can significantly retard the skin's ability to shed excess heat.  

Studies indicate that, other things being equal, the severity of heat disorders tend to increase with age -- heat cramps in a 17-year-old may be heat exhaustion in someone 40, and heat stroke in a person over 60.  

Acclimatization has to do with adjusting sweat-salt concentration, among other things.  The idea is to lose enough water to regulate body temperature, with the least possible chemical disturbance.   Know These Heat Disorder Symptoms    
Heat  
Disorder
Symptoms First Aid
Sunburn Redness and pain. In severe cases, swelling of skin, blisters, fever, headaches. Ointment for mild cases if blisters appear.  If breaking occurs, apply dry sterile dressing. Serious, extensive cases should be seen by a physician.
Heat  
Cramps
Painful spasms usually in muscles of legs and abdomen possible. Heavy sweating. Firm pressure on cramping muscles, or gentle massage to relieve spasm. Give sips of water. If nausea occurs, discontinue use.
Heat  
Exhaustion
Heavy sweating, weakness, skin cold, pale and clammy. Pulse thready. Normal temperature possible. Fainting and vomiting. Get victim out of sun. Lay down and loosen clothing. Apply cool wet cloths. Fan or move victim to air conditioned room.  Sips of water.  If nausea occurs, discontinue use. If vomiting continues, seek immediate medical attention.
Heat  
Stroke  
(or sunstroke)
High body temperature (106°F, or higher).  Hot dry skin.  Rapid and strong pulse. Possible unconsciousness. Heat stroke is a severe medical emergency.  Summon medical assistance or get the victim to a hospital immediately.  Delay can be fatal.  

Move the victim to a cooler environment.  Reduce body temperature with cold bath or sponging.  Use extreme caution.  Remove clothing, use fans and air conditioners.  If temperature rises again, repeat process.  Do not give fluids.



What is the Heat Index?
How do we alert you of dangerous temperatures?
How does my body handle the heat?
Why cities make the problems worse
Heat Disorders and Symptoms
How to protect yourself