HEAT ILLNESS (Heatstroke; Heat Exhaustion; Heat Cramps) |
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General Information
DEFINITION--Illness caused by prolonged exposure to hot temperatures, high humidity, slow air movement and increased physical activity. Long runs are responsible for most heat illness in athletes. HEATSTROKE represents failure of the body's heat-regulating mechanisms, leading to a heat buildup in the body. HEAT EXHAUSTION represents a loss of body fluids.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS HEATSTROKE:
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Sudden dizziness, weakness, faintness and headache.
Skin that is hot and dry.
No sweating.
High body temperature--frequently 102F (38.9C) or higher.
Rapid heartbeat.
Muscle cramps. HEAT EXHAUSTION:
Skin that is cool and moist.
Pale or gray skin color.
Slow pulse.
Confusion.
Muscle cramps.
Low or normal body temperature.
Dark yellow or orange urine.
CAUSES & RISK FACTORS
Excessive sweating.
Failure to drink enough fluid.
Recent illness involving fluid loss from vomiting or diarrhea.
Hot, humid weather.
Working or exercise in a hot environment.
HOW TO PREVENT
Wear light, loose-fitting clothing in hot weather.
Drink extra iced water throughout practice or competition, if you sweat heavily.
Be adequately trained and fit before a long race.
Splash water on the body during a race or heavy exercise.
Don't take salt tablets.
Pay attention to early symptoms of heat illness. Reduce exercise until symptoms disappear.
WHAT TO EXPECT
DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES
Your own observation of symptoms.
Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
Laboratory studies of blood and urine to measure electrolyte levels.
SURGERYNot necessary nor useful for this disorder.
NORMAL COURSE OF ILLNESSPrompt treatment usually brings full recovery in 1 to 2 days.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Shock.
Brain damage caused by prolonged, high body temperature (106F or 41.1C).
HOW TO TREAT
NOTE -- Follow your doctor's instructions. These instructions are supplemental.
MEDICAL TREATMENT
For heatstroke: Hospitalization to lower body temperature and provide intravenous replacement fluids.
For heat exhaustion: Call your doctor for advice.
FIRST AID
If someone with symptoms is very hot and not sweating:
Cool the person rapidly. Use a cold-water bath or wrap in wet sheets. Arrange for transportation to the nearest hospital. This is an emergency!
If someone is faint but sweating:
Give the person cold or ice liquids (water, soft drinks or fruit juice). Don't give salt pills.
Arrange for transportation to the hospital, except in mild cases. Call your doctor for advice.
HOME TREATMENTNot appropriate except for mildest cases of heat exhaustion.
MEDICATIONMedicine usually is not necessary for this disorder.
ACTIVITYActivity may be resumed slowly when symptoms disappear.
DIETDrink extra fluids and eat foods high in potassium (orange juice, bananas) or take potassium supplements.
CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF
You have symptoms of heatstroke or heat exhaustion, or observe them in someone else. Call immediately! These conditions may be serious or fatal.
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