HEAT EXHAUSTION and HEATSTROKE: Prevention Is Key

HEAT EXHAUSTION and HEATSTROKE: Prevention is key!!

HEAT EXHAUSTION: A condition where the body becomes over-heated, especially in hot humid environments, and body fluids are lost through profuse sweating in an effort to cool off the body. Despite the heavy sweating, the body remains over-heated and dehydration with loss of electrolytes occurs. Without prompt treatment, heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke, a life-threatening condition.

SYMPTOMS OF HEAT EXHAUSTION: Pale, cool moist skin with goose bumps; Profuse sweating; weak and rapid pulse; nausea; headache; fatigue; thirst; dizziness; low-grade fever.

TREATMENT: Move to a shaded, cool, air-conditioned place; if possible, rest on back with legs elevated above heart level (the heart is working hard to keep the body cool); apply cool water or cold compresses to the skin and fan the student; loosen clothing and remove any unnecessary clothing; and very important… Hydrate! Have student drink water or Gatorade.

HEATSTROKE: Without prompt treatment, heat exhaustion can quickly lead to heatstroke which is a life-threatening condition. With heatstroke, the body’s cooling system which is controlled by the brain shuts down. Body temperature rises to the point at which brain damage and internal organ damage can occur. This can result in irreversible damage and even death.

SYMPTOMS OF HEATSTROKE: Core body temperature over 104 degrees; Unconscious or mental status changes such as confusion, hallucinations, or coma; flushed, hot dry skin; elevated blood pressure that later drops; hyperventilation; shortness of breath; vomiting.

TREATMENT: Suspected heatstroke is always a medical emergency and 911 must be called. While waiting for the ambulance, follow the same treatment guidelines as for heat exhaustion. The key point here is to try to cool down their body temperature as quickly as possible while awaiting the ambulance, as irreversible brain damage as well as organ failure can occur. Give cool beverages by mouth only if the student has a normal mental state and can tolerate it.

PREVENTION: Prevention is key!! Stay hydrated; wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing (dark, tight clothing absorbs and holds in heat); avoid sunburn and use plenty of sunscreen; wear wide brimmed hats; avoid the hottest times of day for activities.

THOSE MOST AT RISK: Elderly and small children; students on medications for seizures, blood pressure, depression, and ADHD. Obesity; students with panhypopituitary and albinism.