What are the differences between the various heat-related illnesses? What do I do these occur?

When we are subjected to higher-than-usual temperatures or levels of humidity and activity, our bodies may fail to sufficiently cool. As a result, internal heat may build up to dangerous levels, which can result in a heat illness. But what are the differences between these conditions? And more importantly, what can you do if these occur? Here is a brief overview of these conditions, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC):

Heat cramps – these brief, yet possibly painful cramps may develop in the muscles of the legs, arms, or abdomen during or after vigorous exercise in extreme heat. Insufficient fluids may strike children, in particular. As heat cramps are not serious, special treatment is usually not required. Treatments usually involve resting in a cool spot, and taking in enough fluids. You may also want to consider massaging the cramped muscles.

Heat exhaustion – this heat-related illness can develop following several days of exposure to high temperatures and inadequate or unbalanced fluid replacement. While everyone is at risk, the most susceptible are and those working or exercising in hot environments, as well as the elderly or anyone with high blood pressure. The warning signs for heat exhaustion include:

• Muscle cramps
• Weakness or tiredness
• Dizziness
• Headache 
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fainting
• Paleness
• Heavy sweating
• Cool and moist skin
• Fast and weak pulse rates
• Fast and shallow breathing

Heat exhaustion may progress to heat stroke, if untreated. If symptoms worsen or last longer than one hour, medical attention is advised. However, until that point, you may try drinking cool, nonalcoholic beverages and resting in an air-conditioned environment. Other smart ideas include taking a cool shower, bath, or sponge bath and wearing lightweight clothing.

Heat stroke – considered to be the most serious of heat-related illness, this condition occurs when the body is unable to control its temperature. As a result, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body cannot sufficiently cool down. The body’s temperature then quickly rises, and may reach 106°F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. Without emergency treatment, permanent disability and even death may occur. The warning signs of heat stroke include:

• An extremely high body temperature, which is anything above 103°F
• Red, hot, and dry skin, although sweating is not common
• Rapid, strong pulse
• Throbbing headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Unconsciousness

Heat stroke is life-threatening. As such, if any of these signs appear, it is vital that the victim receives immediate medical assistance. In the meantime, it is vital to cool the victim. To accomplish this, you should quickly get the victim to a shady area and cool them as fast as possible. Other cooling methods include:
 
• Cooling the victim in a tub or shower, or with a sponge or garden hose. If there’s low humidity, you may want to wrap them in a cool, wet sheet and fan them vigorously. 
• Continue monitoring body temperature and cooling efforts until their body temperature drops to 101-102°F
• Do not give the victims any alcoholic beverages
• Contact the hospital emergency room for further instructions if medical personnel are delayed

When it comes to electrolyte replacing, rather than relying on a sugary and salty electrolyte drink, why not consider a more natural approach? A refreshing and effective way for electrolyte replacement and restoring minerals is provided by taking two Lyte'N Go Chewable Electrolyte Tablets. Each chewy, fruity-tasting electrolyte replacement tablet is sugar-free, low in carbohydrates, and very convenient.