Travel+Health AirMed: Serious Heat Related Illnesses, What You Should Know

AirMed Advises About Heat Stroke and Related Illness

Heat-related illnesses are a spectrum of disorders ranging from relatively benign heat cramps to potentially lethal heat stroke. These are due to environmental heat exposure, when the body’s ability to cool itself through its usual mechanisms (i.e. sweating, radiation) is overwhelmed.

HEAT CRAMPS, EXHAUSTION

Heat cramps are very painful muscle cramps, usually in the legs, that occur during exercise. These are usually resolved with rest, cooling off, and replacing fluids and electrolytes. Heat exhaustion is a bit more severe, and may be considered a precursor to heatstroke. Symptoms include heavy sweating, rapid breathing and a fast, weak pulse. In this case, the victim should be moved to a cool area (indoors, or at least in the shade) and clothing removed to promote heat loss (passive cooling).

Active cooling methods such as a fan and cold compresses to the torso, had, neck and groin will help significantly. Again, fluids and electrolytes should be given. Water alone may suffice in mild cases (heat cramps), but sports beverages such as Gatorade G2 or Pedialyte are preferred for more significant heat injuries. Thirst is NOT a reliable indicator for the need for rehydration.

HEAT STROKE

Heat stroke is a medical emergency, and if untreated can lead to significant neurological damage or death. This occurs when the body’s ability to regulate core temperature has been completely compromised, and body temperatures may exceed 40.6 °C (105.1 °F). One of the hallmark signs of heat stroke is a change in mental status, such as confusion, slurred speech, or unconsciousness.

Do NOT rely on the “lack of sweating” sign – that is not always true! If someone is demonstrating signs of heat stroke, do not give them anything to eat or drink (they may aspirate these if they are semi-conscious), but do start other cooling measures while you are otherwise calling EMS or seeking medical care.

BEST TREATMENT

The best treatment for heat related illnesses is to prevent them from happening. During the warmer months, reduce your risk by observing precautions to avoid overheating and dehydration. Light, loose-fitting clothing will allow perspiration to evaporate and cool the body. Wide-brimmed hats in light colors keep the sun from warming the head and neck and block the powerful radiation from hurting the eyes; vents on a hat will allow perspiration to cool the head.

Strenuous exercise should be avoided during daylight hours in hot weather, as well as remaining in enclosed spaces without cooling or ventilation. When the outside temperature is 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21.1°C), the temperature inside the car can exceed 120 degrees (48.8°C), even when the windows are partially open. NEVER leave children, elderly or disabled adults, or pets alone in a vehicle!

Medications and substances that inhibit cooling and cause dehydration such as alcohol, caffeine, stimulants, anti-cholinergics (i.e. for Parkinson’s disease) predispose individuals to heat related injury and illness. Individuals at the extremes of age (younger than 5, older than 65) are also at risk.