Heat-Related Illnesses

Most heat illnesses happen when you are exposed to heat too long. Exercising or working outdoors can also cause heat illness. Older adults, young children, and people who are sick or overweight are at higher risk. Taking certain medicines or drinking alcohol can also increase your risk.

 

Heat-related illnesses include:

 

• Heat stroke:
  A life-threatening illness in which body temperature can rise above 106°F (41 °C ) in minutes. Symptoms include dry skin, rapid and strong pulse, dizziness, nausea, and confusion. If you see any of these signs, seek medical help immediately.
• Heat exhaustion:
  An illness that can occur after several days of exposure to high temperatures and not enough fluids. Symptoms include profuse sweating, rapid breathing, and a rapid, weak pulse. If left untreated, it can precede heat stroke.
• Heat cramps:
  Muscle pain or spasms that occur during intense exercise. You may typically experience them in your abdomen, arms, or legs.
• Heat rash:
  Skin irritation from excessive sweating. It is most common in young children.

 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides the following recommendations to prevent heat-related illnesses:

• Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
• Avoid exercising during hot weather, especially if you are not used to working or exercising in a hot environment.
• Use sunscreen, sunburn reduces the body’s ability to cool itself and can cause dehydration.
• Do not leave children inside cars.
• Avoid hot and heavy foods, these add heat to your body.
• Drink plenty of fluids regardless of how much physical activity you do.

 

References

National Library of Medicine. (s. f.). Heat-related illnesses. https://medlineplus.gov/spanish/heatillness.html