Medical conditions due to excessive heat exposure that should be avoided and treated urgently

Dear readers,
We have all been looking forward to the summer and its finally here! :)
 
I live in Nicosia, the capital Cyprus where the weather can reach up to 45°C; and even though i love the heat, such high temperatures are not to be disregarded.

Here is a reminder to do all of those things that we hear every summer... Drink loads of water, apply sunscreen and then apply again! Protect your eyes with shades, wear a hat, wear clothes that will protect from the sun....

Sources: CDC, 2004a; Kunihiro and Foster, 2004; NWS, 2004

 

I know, i know... you have heard it all before!
But here are some serious Medical conditions due to excessive heat exposure that should be avoided and treated urgently:

1. Heat cramps
Symptoms:

Painful muscle cramps and spasms, usually in muscles of legs and abdomen. Heavy sweating.

Responses:

Apply firm pressure on cramping muscles or gently massage to relieve spasm. Give sips of water; if nausea occurs, discontinue water intake. Consult with a clinician or physician if individual has fluid restrictions (e.g., dialysis patients).

2. Heat exhaustion

Symptoms:

Heavy sweating, weakness, cool skin, pale, and clammy. Weak pulse. Normal temperature possible. Possible muscle cramps, dizziness, fainting, nausea, and vomiting.

Responses:   

Move individual out of sun, lay him or her down, and loosen clothing. Apply cool, wet cloths. Fan or move individual to airconditioned room. Give sips of water; if nausea occurs, discontinue water intake. If vomiting continues, seek immediate medical attention. Consult with a clinician or physician if individual has fluid restrictions (e.g., dialysis patients).

3. Heat stroke (sunstroke)

Symptoms:

Altered mental state. Possible throbbing headache, confusion, nausea, and dizziness. High body temperature (106°F or higher). Rapid and strong pulse. Possible unconsciousness. Skin may be hot and dry, or patient may be sweating. Sweating likely especially if patient was previously involved in vigorous activity 

Responses:  

Heat stroke is a severe medical emergency. Summon emergency medical assistance or get the individual to a hospital immediately. Delay can be fatal. Move individual to a cooler, preferably air-conditioned, environment. Reduce body temperature with a water mister and fan or sponging. Use air conditioners. Use fans if heat index temperatures are below the high 90s. Use extreme caution. Remove clothing. If temperature rises again, repeat process. Do not give fluids.

Enjoy your summer and keep safe under the sun!
xx
Tasha