Take Action Against Signs of Heat-Related Illness

The scorching summer season is upon us. But the risk of heat-related illness isn’t confined to a particular season, and it can occur both outdoors in the sun, or inside a muggy environment.

 

Here’s a guide to four common types of heat-related illness. The information comes from experts at the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, and others.

 

Heatstroke
Heatstroke is the most serious heat-related illness. It occurs when the body can’t control its temperature, which can rise to critical levels within 10 to 15 minutes.

 

The symptoms include a high body temperature, confusion, a throbbing headache and slurred speech. A person may sweat profusely or stop sweating while the skin turns dry and hot.

 

If you find someone suffering from these symptoms, call for immediate medical help. In the meantime, move the person to a cool, shaded area. Put cold, wet cloths or ice over his or her body. Or, soak the person’s clothing with cold water.

 

This serious condition is caused by a loss of water and salt from the body.

 

Someone experiencing heat exhaustion may suffer from a rapid heartbeat, heavy sweating and extreme weakness. The person may become dizzy, vomit and possibly faint.

 

If heat exhaustion occurs, take the person to a shaded area to rest and offer plenty of water. Apply cold water or cloths to the head, neck and face. Accompany the person to a clinic or emergency department for medical evaluation and treatment.

 

Sometimes related to heat exhaustion, cramps also are the result of a drop in the body’s salt and water levels.

 

Muscle cramps and pain or spasms in the abdomen, arms or legs are a few of the symptoms of heat exhaustion.

 

You should urge a person whose experiencing heat cramps to stop all activities, sit in a cool place and drink juice or a sports beverage. It’s also OK to offer water and food. If cramps don’t subside within an hour, take the person for medical care.

 

Sometimes called prickly heat, this annoying and common heat-related illness is caused by sweating. Symptoms include clusters of red blisters or pimples that feel prickly or itchy.

 

The rash usually disappears after the person cools off. Applying a powder can help ease the discomfort, but avoid moistening the area with ointments or creams. They’re likely to make it worse.

 

You can learn more about preventing and treating heat-related illnesses at www.osha.gov. Type "heat stress" in the search box.