How to Recognize a Heat-Related Illness

Medical Author: Melissa Conrad Stoppler, MD

During
a heat wave, it's important to know and be able to recognize the signs and
symptoms of a heat-related illness. There are different types of heat-related
illnesses, ranging from those that cause temporary discomfort to the generally
fatal condition known as heat stroke. In all heat-related illnesses, the
symptoms appear when a person is exposed to extreme temperatures.

The
following checklist can help you recognize the symptoms of heat-related
illnesses:

1. Heat
   Rash: Heat rash is a skin irritation caused by excessive sweating during hot,
   humid weather. It can occur at any age. Heat rash looks like a red cluster of pimples or small blisters.

2. 
Heat cramps: A person who has been exercising or participating in
other types of strenuous activity in the heat may develop painful muscle spasms
in the arms, legs, or abdomen referred to as heat rash. The body
temperature is usually normal, and the skin will feel moist and cool, but
sweaty.    

3. 
Heat stroke: Heat stroke is a form of
hyperthermia in which
the body temperature is elevated dramatically. Heat stroke is a medical
emergency and can be fatal if not promptly and properly treated. Cooling the
victim is a critical step in the treatment of heat stroke. The most important
measures to prevent heat strokes are to avoid becoming dehydrated and to avoid
vigorous physical activities in hot and humid weather. Infants, the elderly,
athletes, and outdoor workers are the groups at greatest risk for heat
stroke.

What
are heat stroke symptoms and signs?

Symptoms of heat stroke can sometimes mimic those of heart attack or other conditions. Sometimes a
person experiences symptoms of heat exhaustion before progressing to heat
strokes.

Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
Nausea, vomiting, fatigue, weakness, headache, muscle cramps and aches, and dizziness.

However, some individuals can develop symptoms of heat
stroke suddenly and rapidly without warning.

Different people may have different symptoms and signs of
heatstroke.

Common symptoms and signs of heat stroke include:
High body temperature, the absence of sweating, with hot red or flushed dry
skin, rapid pulse, difficulty breathing, strange behavior, hallucinations,
confusion, agitation, disorientation, seizure, and/or coma.

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