Heat stroke can come on a person suddenly; in some cases, without warning signs of heat exhaustion. If at any point someone experiences symptoms of heat stroke, that person should be taken to a doctor immediately for treatment. Heat stroke can be fatal if left untreated. Take precautions when in extreme heat conditions to avoid heat exhaustion.
Features
Heat cramps usually occur before heat stroke or heat exhaustion. They usually occur as severe cramping in the hands or feet or calves. Sometimes they are so strong that they can disable a person from being able to use the affected muscles. If you experience cramping while in a hot environment, relax as much as possible and get to a cool place. Drink plenty of water, and be aware of any signs of heat exhaustion.
Features
Heat exhaustion is often a precursor to heat stroke. The symptoms might be subtle at first, but if there are more than a couple of symptoms present, and they continue even after seeking a cool place and drinking water, you should seek help. Symptoms of heat stroke could include fatigue or weakness, headaches, nausea, excessive thirst, muscle or heat cramps. Fainting or dizziness might occur. A person might appear agitated, confused or anxious. She may sweat profusely, and then exhibit cold or clammy skin. Heat exhaustion isn't fatal, but be aware that if left untreated, it could lead to heat stroke.
Features
Heat stroke has extreme symptoms that are usually very obvious. It can occur when a person stays outside exposed to extremely hot or sunny conditions without some kind of protection. Heat stroke symptoms usually include severe headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness and fatigue. The person might be extremely hot, but sweating might have decreased. Blood might appear in his urine or stool, and his body temperature might shoot up to 104 degrees or more. Confusion, deliriousness or loss of consciousness and convulsions are extreme signs and the person should be taken to a hospital immediately.
Considerations
Call for help or take a person to an emergency medical facility immediately if she has heat exhaustion-related symptoms that are not relieved by being under the shade or in an air conditioned location, and taking in water and electrolytes. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are often caused by a lack of ability by the body to produce sweat in order to release heat from the body. Always drink plenty of water when out in the sun or doing any activities. Salt intake is also important when out under the sun.
Solution
If someone is experiencing heat stroke, a doctor will need to monitor the person. The person will need to be hydrated, to replace the fluids lost through sweat. An IV might be required if the person is unable to take in fluids due to vomiting or nausea. Someone with heat stroke might be immersed in a cold bath by a doctor, and then further monitored until her body temperature is at a normal level and fluids are recovered.
Tags: heat stroke, Features Heat, body temperature, cool place, exhaustion Features, exhaustion Features Heat, heat exhaustion