Heat-related illnesses include heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, and sunburn. For the purposes of this article, we’re going to discuss heat stroke and heat exhaustion, with heat stroke being the more serious of the two heat-related illnesses.
Symptoms of Heat Stroke
Heat stroke is a medical emergency and if you suspect it, you should call 911 right away. If someone is suffering from heat stroke, you should move him or her to a cooler place. To help lower their body temperature, place them in a cool bath or use cool cloths. Do not let the person drink anything. Signs of heat stroke:
- A body temperature of 103° F or higher
- Nausea
- Confusion
- A fast pulse
- Headache
- A loss of consciousness
- Skin that is hot, red, or damp
Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is not as much of an emergency as heat stroke, but it’s still serious and it can be hard to tell the difference between heat stroke and heat exhaustion. If you suspect heat exhaustion, move the person to a cool place and loosen their clothing. Have the person sip water, and have them take a cool bath or place cool, wet clothing on their body. Seek medical attention right away if the person throws up, their symptoms get worse, or if their symptoms last longer than one hour. Signs of heat exhaustion:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Muscle cramps
- Tired or weak
- A fast, but weak pulse
- Pale, cold and clammy skin
- Passing out
Preventing Heat-Related Illness
Heat-related illness can be prevented by staying out of the heat between the hours of 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, and by arranging your schedule around those hours so you’re only in the sun in the early morning and the evening. However, it can be hard to prevent heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke when you work outside. To learn more about “occupational heat exposure,” click here. If you suffered ill health effects due to heat exposure while at work, contact The Zendeh Del Law Firm, PLLC.