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Heat related conditions:
Exposure to heat and high temperatures
The human body maintains a temperature
between 36-37o C. Your body regulates excess heat by sweating. Therefore you
should drink plenty of water to maintain your fluid balance. Heat related conditions are
brought on by exposure to high temperatures and humidity.
Heat Cramps:
Heat cramps are the result of an imbalance in the body fluids caused by vigorous activity,
dehydration and high temperatures. The body loses more fluids than it is replacing. This
fluid debit causes muscles to lose their vital electrolyte balance (complex salts), thus
causing muscular contraction (cramps).
Signs and Symptoms:
- Pale, clammy skin.
- Sweating (after some form of exertion).
- Cramping pains (in the limbs and/or
abdomen).
- Nausea.
- Spasms (affected limb or limbs).
Treatment:
- Rest the victim in the shade.
- Give sips of water to drink (after nausea
has passed).
- Don't massage affected limbs.
- Discourage any further exercise.
Heat Exhaustion:
Heat Exhaustion, also called Heat Prostration or Heat Collapse is caused during or after
exertion accompanied by heat and high humidity. It affects all people but particularly the
very young and elderly.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Pale, clammy skin.
- Profuse and prolonged sweating.
- Cramps in the limbs and/or abdomen
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Headache
- Lethargy
Treatment:
- Rest the victim is the shade.
- Discourage any further exertion.
- Cool down casualty by sponging. (use tepid
water)
- Give cool water to drink (cautiously,
after nausea has passed).
Heat Stroke:
Heat stroke is known as a Core Temperature Emergency. Heat stroke can be fatal if left
untreated.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Flushed, hot, dry skin.
- The victim will have ceased sweating.
- Rapid, strong pulse.
- Aggressive or irrational behaviour
- Staggering, Dizziness or Faintness
- Visual disturbances
- Vomiting
- Collapse and seizures
- Coma
Treatment:
- Call an ambulance.
- Move the victim into the shade.
- Remove the victim's clothing.
- Cool down the casualty. (use whatever is
available)
- Prepared to resuscitate
if required.
- Give nothing by mouth - rehydration is
required by intravenous fluids.
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