Heat Related Illnesses
What is Heat-Related Illness?
Since we are in summer, we need to be aware of heat-related illnesses, how to recognize them, and how to avoid them. Heat-related illnesses can range from very mild conditions like heat rash to severe heat stroke.
Heat-related illnesses predominantly affect children under 15 years and people older than 65 years. Certain medical conditions, alcohol abuse, and certain medications can increase the likelihood of experiencing heat-related illnesses.
Different Types of Heat-Related Illnesses
There are three kinds of heat-related illnesses:
- Heat Stroke: If the body temperature exceeds 105 degrees Fahrenheit, it is called heat stroke. Most of the time, individuals are unconscious. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate cooling and transportation to the nearest hospital.
- Mild Heat-Related Illnesses: If the body temperature is less than 105 degrees, heat-related illnesses can be divided into mild and moderate categories. In the mild variety, symptoms include muscle cramps, heat rash, and mild swelling of the lower legs.
- Moderate Heat-Related Illnesses: In the moderate category, individuals may experience exercise-associated collapse (heat syncope) and heat exhaustion.
When to be Concerned?
As mentioned earlier, if the temperature is above 105 degrees with altered mental status, call EMS and take the patient immediately to the nearest hospital. In cases of heat-related collapse and heat exhaustion, medical care should be sought immediately. Start cooling measures along with hydration and elevate the legs.
How to Prevent Heat-Related Illnesses?
Heat-related illnesses can be very harmful, but the good news is they are very preventable. Important strategies to prevent heat-related illnesses include:
- Acclimatization
- Adequate Hydration
- Wearing Loose-Fitting Clothes
- Wearing Light-Colored Clothes
- Avoiding Activities During Extreme Temperatures
