Continuing our series on Environmental Emergencies, we now turn our attention to "Heat-Related Emergencies." These situations can escalate quickly, so it’s vital to understand how heat exposure impacts the body and what steps you can take to prevent and treat hyperthermia.
Thermal energy—whether hot or cold—can cause similar symptoms at opposite extremes. In this article, we’ll focus on how heat exposure affects the body’s core temperature and how elevated core temperature influences treatment strategies.
Understanding Hyperthermia
Hyperthermia occurs when your body’s core temperature rises above its normal level of 37°C (98.6°F). The term "hyper" means "high," and "thermia" refers to temperature, so hyperthermia literally means a high body temperature. The condition progresses through three stages: Heat Cramps, Heat Exhaustion, and Heat Stroke, each with distinct symptoms. If the body’s temperature reaches around 41°C (106°F), unconsciousness is common.
Heat Exposure and Its Symptoms
Heat Cramps (37°C to 38°C)
Mild to severe muscle contractions, often in the legs and abdomen
Moist skin
Heat Exhaustion (38°C to 40°C)
Elevated body temperature
Moist skin, which may appear redder or paler than usual
Symptoms include nausea, dizziness, weakness, headaches, and a general feeling of illness
Note: Many people mistakenly believe this stage is Heat Stroke or Sun Stroke or even a flu.
Heat Stroke (39°C to 41°C)
Critically high body temperature
Red, hot, dry skin with no sweating
Symptoms include irritability, bizarre or aggressive behavior, rapid and weak pulse, rapid shallow breathing, seizures, and progressive loss of consciousness.
Causes of Heat Exposure
Prolonged exposure to high temperatures
Preventing Hyperthermia
To avoid heat-related emergencies, consider these key prevention strategies:
Hydration: Drink plenty of cool fluids, but avoid energy drinks.
Timing: Limit outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, around 3 pm.
Pacing: Slow down activities as temperatures rise and avoid prolonged work or exercise.
Rest: Take frequent breaks in cool or shaded areas.
Clothing: Dress appropriately for the heat—light-colored, loose-fitting cotton clothing is ideal. Wear a hat in the sun.
Avoid Dehydration: Steer clear of caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you and impair your body’s temperature regulation.
Treating Hyperthermia
Ensure Safety: Check the area and the person. Confirm that their airway, breathing, and circulation (ABCs) are intact. Always wear gloves if available.
Call 911: If the person exhibits signs of seizures, altered consciousness, vomiting, unconsciousness, or possible Heat Stroke, or if EMS might be delayed, call 911 and get an AED.
Care for Heat Exposure:
Hydrate: If the person is conscious and able, have them sip cool water or an electrolyte drink (no energy drinks).
Rest: Move the person to a cool place to rest.
Cool Down: Loosen tight clothing, remove sweaty clothing, and apply cool water to the skin. Fan them to enhance evaporation.
Targeted Cooling: For Heat Stroke, remember "Hot is Fast / Cold is Slow." Apply cool water bottles or ice packs to the armpits, groin, and back of the neck. Immerse the person in cool (not cold) water or sponge them with tepid water.
Continue Care: Keep caring for the person until EMS arrives or further medical help is obtained.
Important Reminders
Heat-related emergencies can worsen rapidly. Never let someone with Heat Exhaustion or Heat Stroke "sleep it off" without treatment.
Febrile Seizures: Infants and young children may experience seizures when their temperature spikes quickly (typically to 40°C or higher). If an infant's armpit temperature is 38°C or higher, or a child’s temperature reaches 40°C, call 911 immediately.
If a seizure occurs due to fever, keep the person safe, cool them down, and seek medical attention right away.
Mastering these first aid techniques for heat exposure can help you assist anyone in need, regardless of the specific condition. Remember, the key to treatment is to "Treat the heat" by cooling the body effectively and safely.
In any emergency, your priorities should be to Protect Yourself, Call 911, and Act Quickly. Your first aid training could be the "Saving Grace" someone needs.
RESOURCES:
Author - Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd
Jason T
Retired EMT - Heart & Stroke Foundation Senior Instructor